Allan Tracy Girdler was born in New York City in April 1937 and grew up in Old Greenwich Connecticut with parents Reynolds and Barbara Girdler and his three brothers.

Determined to seek his fortune in the west, he went to college in Tulsa Oklahoma, where he graduated with a BA in Journalism in 1959, quickly getting a job with the Tulsa Daily World as a reporter.

1n 1968 he moved his family to California to take a job at Car Life Magazine, a monthly automobile enthusiast publication.

Car Life ceased operation in 1970, but Allan was soon offered a position at Road & Track Magazine as editor. Later, his interest in all things motorcycling led him to become the editor of Cycle World Magazine, in 1975. He would work in various capacities at Cycle World for the next forty years.

In addition to his working for these magazines, he also authored books, mostly about motorsports. These books include "The History of Harley Davidson", "Stock Car Racers", and a regularly updated "Harley Davidson Buyers Guide". His first book was titled "Customizing Your Van", a 1970's how-to guide for those wishing to join the van customization craze.

His is survived by his wife Janet Girdler, his four children, twelve grandchildren, and multiple great grandchildren.

This successful husband and father, businessman and farmer, reporter, editor and author, and motorsports enthusiast, will be greatly missed.