Don was born on August 26, 1934, in Zanesville, Ohio to Mr. & Mrs. Charles & Lydia Allen and was the oldest of five children. His parents preceded him in death along with his brother, Jeff Allen. Don attended High School in New Concord, OH and joined the US Navy in April, 1952, serving in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He served aboard the USS Helena, USS Herbert J. Thomas, and USS Dash, and was with the Underway Training Unit, Norfolk, VA before retiring in June, 1972 after 20 years of service. He held various jobs after the military and retired as a Rigger from Norshipco in 1996. Don kept busy during his retirement doing yard work, watching sports especially THE Ohio State University (Football), and helping family and friends. His favorite past time was Square Dancing with different clubs. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and the Unity Renaissance church.
Don was dearly loved by his family. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, wife, Shirley Marlene Watson Allen, his brother, Bill Allen of Ohio and two sisters, Karen Allen Rader of Indiana, and Sue Allen Green of Ohio, his sons, David (Elizabeth), Mark, and daughter, Susan Allen Barber (Donn), Grandsons, Brandon Allen and Joshua Allen, and Great-Grandson, Parker Allen, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends.
A viewing at 1:00pm and funeral ceremony at 2pm celebrating Don’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 30, 2022. Burial with military honors will be immediately following the service at 3:00pm. Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens will oversee arrangements.
Friends may express their condolences to the Allen Family by visiting www.woodlawnnorfolk.com.
