Allison Kay O'Toole

Allison Kay O’Toole, beloved wife, therapist, writer, and friend, passed away on January 29, 2026. She was born on July 19, 1950, in Seattle, Washington, to Edward and Helen Chatlien, who preceded her in death.

Allison was raised in Santa Cruz, California, a place that deeply shaped her lifelong love of nature. She felt most at home near the ocean, in the mountains, or alongside horses. An accomplished equestrian, her bond with horses reflected her gentle spirit, patience, and deep compassion for all living beings. She was also drawn to many animals including squirrels, birds, and dogs. She raised Yellow Labradors for many years, and always felt a connection with their loving, and playful spirit. 

She earned her master’s degree in psychology from Santa Clara University and dedicated her professional life to helping others as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MAMFT). Allison had a rare gift for listening with both her heart and her mind, offering warmth, insight, and understanding to everyone she encountered. Her temperament was loving and kind, and she had a natural ability to make people feel safe, seen, and valued.

Allison was also a writer and was in the early stages of writing a book about the journey of life shared with her husband- an offering she hoped would bring comfort, guidance, and connection to others. Music was another love of her life. Known affectionately by many as “the songbird,” Allison was always singing, filling rooms with melody, laughter, and joy. She delighted in making people laugh and has a contagious sense of lightness that lifted those around her.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 25 years, Michael Patrick O’Toole, a musician and her cherished partner in life, love, and creativity. She is also survived by her sister, Joanne, who resides in Grass Valley, California, and one niece and one nephew.  Allison’s legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her kindness, humor, wisdom, and song.

She will be remembered for her loving heart, her joyful spirit, and her unwavering belief in the beauty of connection-between people, within nature, and throughout life’s shared journey.

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