Terry Dale Allen

Terry Dale Allen was born in Sherman, Texas June 6th, 1943 and died May 24th, 2024. His parents were Myron Meade Allen (Bud) from Iron River, Michigan and Genevieve Threasa Mills (Gen) from Green Bay, Wisconsin. At the time of Terry’s birth, his father, who was a career Army officer, was stationed in Sherman, Texas where Terry and his twin brother, Barry, were christened in the Methodist Church.

Growing up in a military family meant that travel was a way of life for Terry. He spent much of his childhood on Army bases in Japan, Germany, and the United States. Upon his father’s assignment to the Pentagon, the family relocated to Arlington, Virginia area where Terry attended Robert E. Lee High School and graduated from the newly built Jeb Stuart High School .

Following high school, Terry attended Texas A&M on a track scholarship and remained close to members of his Corps squadron throughout his life. He attended Houston Baptist University where he played basketball during its inaugural year. Terry completed his education at the University of Houston where he was an avid Cougar basketball fan.

Terry met his wife of 59 years, Carolyn Aileen Wheeler, in 1963, while both had part-time jobs as park directors for the City of Houston. They were married may 29th, 1965 at the Frist Baptist Church in Deer Park, Texas. They were blessed with a precious daughter, Angela Suzanne Allen, in 1971.

Terry worked many years for G.E. as a power systems engineer. His childhood military travels with his family taught him to be at home where ever his job assignment sent him. Among those job locations were Europe, Asia, Africa, Canada, South America and the Mid-East. He quickly adapted to where ever he was sent. He even learned while in Bangladesh to eat with his hand as no utensils were used. He never complained and respected the customs of each culture.

Everyone who knew Terry knew his passion for flying. He obtained several licenses as well as an associate degree in Airplane Mechanics. He was a meticulous pilot. It was his honor to fly with Burt Rutan of Voyager fame during a demonstration of the VariEze plane designed by Burt. Terry was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association and he was proud to own a plane and a hangar to house it in.

Reflections on Terry’s life must include his love for animals. He had many pets over the years that he loved and cared for. He could often be seen napping on the couch with his beloved basset, Freckles. He equally loved cats. He faithfully fed an assortment of kitties and any other wildlife who happened to stop by our yard so none would go hungry.

Preceding Terry in death were his parents, daughter Angela Suzanne Allen Kulesha, and twin brother Barry Dean Allen. Surviving to mourn his loss are his wife Carolyn Allen, grandson Collin Kulesha, cousin Ron Allen and wife Sharon, cousin David Jenkins, brother-in-law Doug Wheeler and wife Cheri, sister-in-law Lisa McBride and husband Todd, niece Paula Cline and husband Jordan, nephew Chris Wheeler, nephew Otis Wheeler, cousin Joan Graham and husband Melvin and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends.

The family wishes to give special thanks to the doctors and staff at Baylor College of Medicine for the support and care given to Terry these past few years. With their help, he was able to lead a fairly normal life despite cancer treatment. Also, a special thank you goes to Iron River cousin and friend Jeanne Bonetti who has given unwavering support to all of the Allen family for many years.

A private family Presbyterian committal service, officiated by Reverend Mark Downs, will be held June 6th 2024 from 11:00AM to 12:00PM at Grand View Cemetery in Pasadena, Texas where Terry will be laid to rest beside his beloved daughter Angela. A memorial reception will follow.

If you wish to pay tribute to Terry, consider making a donation in his name to the Houston SPCA, the American Cancer Society, or the charity of your choice.

Until we meet again, Terry, we will treasure the memory of your smile, quick wit perseverance, and love of family.