Rheta Elizabeth Allen

Rheta Elizabeth Allen, 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children on Monday, February 2nd just 19 days short of her 82nd birthday. Services in celebration of her life will be at 12:30 p.m. Monday, February 9th at Weerts Funeral Home, Kimberly at Jersey Ridge Road, Davenport.

Visitation will take place before the services on February 9th from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Weerts Funeral Home. Following the services, a private burial will take place at Rock Island National Cemetery, Arsenal Island. Memorials in Rheta’s honor can be made to K9 Kindness Rescue, Inc, 1305 26th Street Bettendorf, IA 52722.

Rheta was born February 21st in Joliet, IL to Rhesa F. Boor and Elizabeth E.L (Hulbert) Boor. On April 16, 1987 she married the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” Allen in Davenport.

She was the strongest woman many knew—raising three children on her own and building a career at the Rock Island Arsenal under the Civil Service General Schedule as an aide-de-camp’s assistant, representing the command at all levels including DC and Congress. Rheta led by example with her fierce independence and incredible work ethic. She never sought recognition for her accomplishments and often seemed puzzled by praise. In her journal, she once wrote words that perfectly captured her spirit: “You do what you have to do.” That was how she lived—steadfast, resilient, and without complaint.

Her greatest pride was always her children, followed closely by the joy she found in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved being present in their lives, rarely missing a game, program, or activity, cheering them on from the sidelines as their biggest fan, often accompanied by her faithful companion, Gus.

At age 49, she retired and embraced a life of adventure with the love of her life, Gene. Together, they traveled the country in their RV, proudly visiting all 50 states and many national parks. Her favorite places were along the Cape and she loved spending time by the ocean.

Many will fondly remember the joy and magic she brought to children and communities as “Ms. Claus,” a role she embraced with warmth. Her presence brought smiles wherever she went, whether in classrooms, church halls, or family gatherings.

She was a devoted member of Eldridge United Methodist Church, where faith and service were a steady part of her life. She will be dearly missed by her friends at bible study and their congregation.

She leaves behind her children: Elizabeth (Wolfe) Welzenbach of Bettendorf, Michael Wolfe of Leipers Fork, TN and Robert (Melanie) Wolfe of Bettendorf. Nine grandchildren (named in age order); Katie (Andy) Yohe, Rebecca (AJ) Poirier, Ryan (Lindsay) Welzenbach, Cassin (Emma) Wolfe, Rhesa Wolfe, Sophronia Wolfe, Campbell Wolfe, Adelaide Wolfe and Charlie Wolfe. Nine great grandchildren (named in age order); Abigail Yohe, Reese Poirier, Levi Yohe, Olivia Poirier, Joey Anne Poirier, Matrix Wolfe, Tyler Welzenbach, Ozzy Wolfe, and Evelyn Welzenbach. Her sister, Carolyn “Philly” Krusemark of Seattle, WA, plus many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband Gene in 2015, Rheta was preceded in death by her two sisters: Beverly “Bev” Sweet and Emma Boor.