Alan L. Pfahler age 78 of North Robinson, Ohio passed away Tuesday morning, May 5, 2026, at the Avita Bucyrus Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
Born December 13, 1947, in Galion, Ohio to the late Loren and Evelyn (Bair) Pfahler, he was a lifelong Crawford County resident and graduate of Colonel Crawford High School. Alan was employed with the Telephone Company for over 30 years before his retirement in 2009.
A member of the Shelby Owls #2553 and Shelby F.O.E. #763, Alan cherished the time he spent in his small, familiar circles. Whether it was with the afternoon crowd at Weber’s, enjoying steak nights at the Eagles, or gathering with friends at The Owl’s, those moments meant the world to him.
Alan was a talented golfer and took great pride in achieving a hole-in-one on Hole 2 at the former Shelby Par Three course. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially woodworking, where he crafted countless pieces for family and friends. His steady hand and artistic eye were evident throughout the community, as his sign painting could be seen at local businesses and baseball fields. Later in life, he developed a passion for creating stained glass pieces and unique lamp fixtures.
He’ll always be remembered for his life-long curiosity. He had a natural ability to approach life with a willingness to learn, build, and try new things, leaving a quiet but lasting impact on those around him.
A dedicated Ham Radio operator, Alan built an impressive setup at his desk, complete with a world map to track the many countries he connected with over the airwaves. He was also a wonderful cook who took great pride in being a true steak grillmaster.
Above all else, Alan’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted and loving father to his four daughters, who meant everything to him.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Judy Ann (Morgan) Pfahler, whom he wed May 30, 2005; his four daughters, Valerie (Hernan) Mendoza of Greenwood, IN, Raina (Brad Rudd) Pfahler of Shelby, Lynn (Chris) Montgomery of Lakewood, OH, Denise (Shawn Cruse) Viapiano of Newton, NC; his loyal K-9 companion Bear; eight grandchildren, one great grandchild; two siblings, Marlene Patterson of Crossville, TN, Charles (Barb) Pfahler of Bucyrus, OH and countless close friends who will miss him dearly.
In addition to his parents, Alan was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Ron Patterson.
Friends may visit the family Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory in Shelby. A memorial service will immediately follow at 6:00 PM with Jim Artz officiating.
In place of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Barkdull Funeral Home, PO Box 644, Shelby, Ohio 44875 to help with expenses.
Condolences for the family may be left online at ww.barkdullfuneralhome.com
Funeral Home: Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory
Website: www.barkdullfuneralhome.com