Robert B. Allen “Bob” was born October 3rd 1942 in Winter Haven, Florida. Bob moved with his family to Kissimmee, FL in 1946, graduating from Osceola High School in 1960. After graduating from Florida State University in 1964, Bob spent 30 years teaching Drivers Education, Civics, and Economics at Haines City High School. Watching Bob interact with generations of his students over the years was always a privilege for his family. If his kids heard “hey Mr. Allen” while out with Bob, they knew that their time was now committed to watching dad catch up.
One of dad’s former students recently shared:
“Mr. Allen had a dangerous job he enjoyed. He was so patient, even when the exchange student didn't understand what the brake pedal was and almost caused a wreck. He saved us from being hit by another car. Good times! He also told me to try to find a parking spot that doesn't require parallel parking. Every time I park on a side street I think of him an laugh. He was right. My husband has spent years trying to teach me and I still have a hard time. Mr. Allen knew our strengths and built on them”.
Bob was a patient and selfless man, always having a story or joke to tell people he met at St. John’s Episcopal, in the shopping isle at Publix, or camping while taking yearly trips to Fort Desoto. He was a big Florida State Seminole’s fan and could rarely stay in the room if the game was close.
As a husband and father, “daddy” was patient and kind, never making a big deal about a mistake or of helping someone in need. Dad simply stepped in and was there for people when they needed help or an ear to listen.
“Dad gave me his prize 1972 Volkswagen Super Beetle as my first car. Shortly thereafter, I rear ended another car because I was following too closely. I only had my learner’s permit at the time. The other car was not damaged at the time; the only damage being my hood and my pride. I was also terrified that dad would be very upset. When coming home, I was crying like baby. Dad simply looked at me and said, ‘are you hurt; was it your fault, and did you learn something?’ I was astonished at his patience and answered with an affirmative “yes.”” Dad, quickly seeing that I was distressed simply said ‘ok, let’s go to Preston’s junk yard and get you a new hood’” (Chris).
Bob loved people, history, non-politically correct jokes, collecting National Geographic magazines, and the Publix Bakery. Most importantly, Bob was a Christian and gave his best to those around him. One of his favorite sayings was “Follow me. I am not lost.” He was never lost. Bob is survived by his wife Linda, sons Chris & Greg, their wives Jen & Christina, and 7 grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister Patricia and brother Gordon. Bob was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Kissimmee, Florida and an active member of Cursillo.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at Grissom Funeral Home in Kissimmee from 11:00am to 12:00pm. At 12:00pm a funeral service will commence followed by a reception. A graveside service will be held at 2:15pm at Osceola Memory Gardens in Kissimmee.
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