Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system, and Alan’s condition eventually made regular performing increasingly difficult.
He retired from performing and largely stepped away from the public spotlight.
For someone whose life had revolved around music and performance since childhood, the transition was undoubtedly profound.
But Alan refused to allow the illness to define his identity.
The family often remembered his determination and optimism in the face of the disease.
One phrase associated with his approach was:
“I might have MS, but MS doesn’t have me.”
That attitude became part of his legacy.
Rather than allowing his diagnosis to erase everything else he had accomplished, Alan continued to focus on his family, faith and the things he could still contribute.
Family Became His Greatest Priority
Alan married Suzanne Pinegar in 1974.
Together they raised eight sons.
By the time of his death, Alan had also become a grandfather and great-grandfather, leaving behind a large family that extended well beyond the original Osmond performing group.
