Allen Checchi
1940 - 2016

OLEAN - Allen Richard Cecchi was born in Olean on July 29, 1940, and died in California on Sept. 19, 2016, at his home.

He graduated from Olean High School in 1958 and from St. Bonaventure University in 1962 with a degree in accounting.

Musical talent was a family trait and Allen began playing the drums in his father's orchestra along with his uncles, Albert and Leo.

He juggled both accounting and music while living in Buffalo and San Francisco, prior to moving to Los Angeles. Allen married Peggy O'Brien in 1969 and they were blessed with a son, Brian, in 1973.

Allen was fortunate to have had a music career which spanned 50 years, playing with such celebrated artists as Al Jarreau, Dusty Springfield and the Jackson Five. He will be remembered also for his love of sports, animals and a respect for nature. He had no concept of brevity when telling a story, but his friends and family listened with grace, usually!

He found humor in most everything, often to the annoyance of his wife. And if the dictionary folks need a new definition of "night owl," they could mention Allen.

He is survived by sisters, Diane Cecchi and Donna (Philip) Smith; an aunt, Virginia Cecchi; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his brother, Robert "Bob."

His passing saddens family and friends, but the memories will make us smile forever.

A celebration of life will be shared on 6:30 p.m. Tuesday (Sept. 27, 2016) at the Bartlett Country Club. Come share his story. Burial will be today in Mission Hills, Calif.