Alan died December 28, 2022 at Norwichtown Rehab and Care Center after a long struggle with Lewy Body disease.
He was predeceased by his parents Gilbert L. and Mildred England Denison. Alan is survived by his loving partner of 47 years, Larry Millhofer MD; his sister, Jill Johnson and her husband Merle; and nieces: Dana Durrua, Amy Benoit, and Kerri Johnson. Dorothy Millhofer and Lynne Millhofer Sheppard were pillars of support during the final years of his illness.
Alan was a graduate of UConn Storrs where he was President of his fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha. He was a pioneer in leading the fight for gay civil rights in Connecticut. In the 80's he, practically single-handedly, ran a gay helpline, published a gay newsletter, founded a local support group and ran a gay bookmobile. He marched on Washington three times. Alan loved Broadway musicals, camp, dogs, cats, and gardening.
There are no calling hours. Burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one's choice.
Alan was a wonderful Uncle and Brother-in-law. His quiet wit and sense of humor always kept us on our toes. We loved Larry and Alan’s visits to our Nickerson State Park campsite while they were living on the Cape. They always brought us goodies and firewood!
We always marveled at Alan’s walkway design through the beautifully architected landscape plantings at their Cape Cod home and looked forward to our visits there. We will cherish our many fond memories of family events and gatherings shared with Alan. We will miss him dearly.
Dick, Chris, Mark, and Lynne (Millhofer) Sheppard
That's a perfect picture of Alan. He always had that piercing, yet kind look in his eyes that showed a deep intelligence and understanding of the world, and faced its challenges unapologetically and with a wonderful sense of humor and wit.
He was a great man. We were very fortunate to have him as an uncle. We're thinking of you Larry.
- Mark Sheppard