Allan Edgar Carlsen, age 82, of Newark, DE passed away on May 17th, 2025.

Allan was born and raised in Chicago, the son of the late Dorothy and Edgar Carlsen. He graduated from Leyden High School and attended the University of Pennsylvania. While studying electrical engineering at UPenn, he was fondly known as "the Flea" while playing quarterback for the university's football team. Several years into his studies, Allan realized that electrical engineering was not his true calling. Following his heart, he returned to Chicago and began working with ABC Network. His passion for performance soon led him to New York City, where he pursued a career on Broadway, beginning with his breakout role in Freedom of the City. Over the course of 17 years, Allan starred in and directed countless New York City productions. His most celebrated and signature role was that of Billy Bishop in Billy Bishop Goes to War, a demanding one-man show that showcased his immense talent and emotional depth.

It was in New York that Allan met the love of his life, Lisa-at their shared mailboxes, no less. Their connection was instant and enduring. Eventually, the couple settled in Newark, Delaware, where they started a family.  "Dad" was Allan's favorite name.  He was the most caring father to his three children: Olivia, Andrea, and Allan Einar.

Allan began teaching at the University of Delaware in 2002. As a professor in the Theatre Department, he left a lasting legacy, particularly through his co-founding of Healthcare Theatre, which partnered with many organizations such as SL24: Unlocke the Light / Sean's House, the Veteran's Hospital, and Nemours Children's Hospital. Allan remained deeply committed to his students and his work until the time of his passing; he never retired.

Outside of his theatrical and academic career, Allan and Lisa collaborated over the years on numerous productions, musicals, dance performances, and church events. Through his creative spirit and generous heart, Allan touched the lives of many. He was actively involved in and supported the University of Delaware's Resident Ensemble Players, Chapel Street Players, and was a pillar of the local performing arts community.

Allan was a mentor to countless young people throughout his professional career and volunteer work. He had a rare and beautiful gift: he never judged anyone. He always gave people the benefit of the doubt, treating everyone with compassion, empathy, and an open heart. Allan was remarkably generous with his time, going out of his way to help others without expecting anything in return. His strength and unwavering kindness made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Allan is survived by his wife of 33 years, Lisa Papili-Carlsen; his children and their spouses, Olivia and Bryan Bryde, Andrea and Matt Taylor, and Allan Einar Carlsen; his grandchildren, Gillian and Mila Bryde, and Luke and Emma Taylor; his sister, Diane Mudge; his brother-in-law, Michael Denzel; his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Papili; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Michele and Bob Shaw, John Papili, Jr., and Francis and Amy Papili; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Allan was preceded in death by his sister, Dawn Denzel, and his father-in-law, John Papili Sr.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday May 27th from 4:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M at Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. A Funeral Liturgy will be held on Wednesday May 28th at 11:00 A.M. at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church, 907 Milltown Road Wilmington, DE 19808. There will be no public burial ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions towards Healthcare Theatre, the recent focus of Allan's passion and work.  Gifts can be made on the University of Delaware's secure website, www.udel.edu/makeagift .  Select "I'd like to search for a different option" (found under the continue button) and search for "Healthcare Theatre Gifts" to donate.  Contributions can alternatively be sent to: University of Delaware, Gifts Processing, 83 E. Main St., 3rd Fl., Newark, DE 19716.   Please make checks payable to: "University of Delaware" and include on the memo line "In memory of Professor Allan E. Carlsen."