After completing his schooling, Allen worked alongside his father on the family farm before beginning his career with the Ceylon Co-Op. He later joined Firestone in Estherville, where he worked faithfully for 26 years until his retirement in 1992.

On April 2, 1960, Allen married Janet Aagard at the United Methodist Church in Estherville. They were blessed with two daughters, Renee and Deanna, who remained the pride of his life.

Allen had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and simple pleasures. He loved fishing, bird watching, lending a hand to his neighbors–whether mowing lawns or snow blowing driveways–and spending countless hours in his garden. Allen cultivated everything from large in-ground plots to patio gardens in recent years. He canned what he grew and enjoyed cooking for family and friends. His cinnamon rolls, homemade bread, bars, soups, jams, jellies, and Christmas candies were treasured by all who tasted them.

Family meant everything to Allen. He traveled often to visit loved ones, attend his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, and simply enjoy being present in their lives. A devoted sports fan, he even attended a Tennessee Titans game with his grandson Michael, a memory he cherished.

Allen is survived by his daughters, Renee Diekmann (Kent Hintze) of Estherville and Deanna (Greg) Harris of Nashville, Tenn.; his grandchildren, Michael (Rachel) Harris of Nashville, Meghan Harris of Crossville, Tenn., and Morgan (Hugh) Gorman of Norwell, Mass.; his great-grandson Henry Harris and a great-granddaughter on the way, Haley Harris. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Laverna Diekmann of Estherville; his brothers-in-law, Stephan (Mary) Aagard of Norwalk and Dennis Johnson of Estherville; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Maria Diekmann; his wife, Janet Diekmann; his brothers, Harold (Julia), Wallace, and Orville Diekmann; his sister, Wilma (E.W. “Shorty”) Schmidtke; sister-in-law Judy Johnson and his nephews, Dale and Dean Schmidtke.

Allen leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. His presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Online condolences may be left for Allen’s family at HenryOlsonFuneral.com

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