The Reverend Allen Whitman, D.D.

The Reverend Dr. Allen Whitman, of Midland, passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2011. Born on February 16, 1925 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Edith and Frank Whitman, Allen attended public school and St. Paul Academy in Minnesota. Shortly after graduation from high school he was inducted into the army as private first class. During WWII, Allen served in combat at Alsace-Lorraine, France.

After the war, he received a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota where he pledged Beta Theta Pi. He later attended law school. His career in the investment banking business was brief due to his decision to study for the ministry. Allen subsequently earned a Bachelor of Divinity at the University of Chicago, Master's degree of Sacred Theology for Northwestern Lutheran Seminary and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Nashotah House in Wisconsin. Allen and his wife of 28 years, Mary Burch, had four children during this time. He went on to serve as rector of Episcopal churches in Minnesota, Kansas City and as associate rector of St. Matthew's in Austin, Texas. For twelve years Allen served as rector of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Trinity in Midland where he was very active in the life of the Episcopal Church. Following "retirement" in 1992, Allen was chaplain of Trinity School for twelve years. Noted for his excellent ability to preach, he incorporated stories and illustrations into his sermons. Allen went on to serve as adjunct faculty at Midland College for many years. He taught classes in World Religions, Dreams and Healing. He became particularly interested in dreams after a sabbatical at the Jung Institute in Switzerland and was able to help many people in spiritual direction. As the author of a number of books including "Parson McFright", "Pray for your Life", "Fairy Tales and the Kingdom of God" as well as two mysteries he enjoyed both reading and writing.

He was an avid sports enthusiast and especially enjoyed playing tennis and golf, sailing and following his beloved Minnesota Twins. He was a great friend to all the dogs in his life and will be very much missed by Fredi Whitman. Allen was a much loved pastor and teacher, and he left his mark on generations of parishioners, students and friends.

He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he has touched. Allen was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Albert Whitman. He is survived by his wife, Janet; his sister, Elizabeth Whitman and four children, Jan Whitman, Terri Whitman, Cynthia Whitman and Peter Whitman as well as two stepdaughters, Alison Atayde and Gail Zimmer, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 20, 2011, 5:30 to 7:30 at Ellis Funeral Home. Funeral will be held on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 11:00 a. m. at the Holy Trinity Church with burial to follow in Minnesota. The family wishes to thank Kind Keepers, The Mabee Center at Manor Park and Hospice of Midland for the excellent care Allen received this last year.

Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com. In lieu of flowers memorials, the family request memorials be made to: Episcopal Church of the Holy Trinity, St. Nicholas Episcopal Church and to: Hospice of Midland, P.O. Box 2621 Midland, TX 79702.