Maryellen Kathryn Allen was born January 9, 1939, in Chicago, IL to Lawrence Nathaneal Magnuson and Frances Dolores Giermak. She was the third and final child born of the marriage after Phyllis Celilia and Gerald Lawrence. All of whom preceded her in death. She died January 28, 2022, with her daughter by her side, holding her hand.
She married John Frank Allen on June 20, 1959, at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Des Moines, IA. Much to the initial chagrin of her parents, especially her mother, because John wasn’t ready to convert to Catholicism when they got married. Dad eventually won everyone over, especially Grandma Frances who he loved and who loved him dearly. Mom didn’t need to win anyone in his family over, she was loved all over the Allen family. John preceded her in death as well.
She was especially close to her “sister,” Shirley Boulton, who survives her. Mom always said they weren’t sisters in law, they were sisters and loved each other as such all the way to the end. Her friendship with Verla Woods and Pat Anderson were also very special to her, and she really loved talking to them whenever she was able. They also survive her.
Mom’s love for her kids and grandkids was amazing. Her daughter, Leslie Ann Allen and grandson, Frank Rodrigues and his special girl, Kenzie McFarland, as well as her son, Michael Lawrence Allen and grandsons, Nolan Allen and Ryan Kelly-Allen will cherish the memories of time spent with the quick witted, sarcastic, sweet, funny, never knew a stranger in a grocery line or in a waiting room, classy, elegant lady that was Maryellen. Although she had lots of medical struggles over the last several years, she never lost her sense of humor, sense of gratitude or ability to express her love for those around her.
Donations may be made to Kindred Hospice because their loving care over the last few months was something we were all so grateful for. Her nurse, Lisa, bather, JoEllen, and social worker, Abi offered so much support to both Maryellen and her daughter, that it is hard to imagine words of gratitude big or appropriate enough to tell them how wonderfully appreciated they are.
Funeral Saturday, February 5, 2022, 11 am. St. Joseph Catholic Church, Winterset, IA. The family will greet others who loved Maryellen one hour prior to the service with lunch directly following in the church hall. Burial of cremains in North McDonald Cemetery will be done at a later date.