Richard Allen

Richard Whitmore Allen was born on August 28, 1931 in Omaha, Nebraska to Walt and Mary (Whitmore) Allen. The family lived on a farm north of Valley while Dick was in grade school at District #23 School. He remembered hard winters and hard work but he enjoyed school including the school plays. Dick graduated from Valley High School in 1949. While he was in high school, Dick was involved in sporting activities and dramatics. He took the lead roles in several plays during his junior and senior years. His instructor told Dick: “Richard, you’re the best actor I have ever known – if you could only remember your lines better. Dick enrolled in Junior College at Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, Missouri. He remained active here with sports and was one of the top five on the rifle team. After his two years, Dick returned home for three years to help his father run the farm. Early in 1954, Dick enlisted in the United States Army, serving 18 months in France. After his Army service, he enrolled in the engineering program at the University of Texas where he earned his BS degree in Engineering. While in Texas, Dick met a young woman from Alabama, Julia Mae. Dick married Julia Austin on September 10, 1960 at the Methodist Church in Valley, Nebraska and they made their home in Omaha before moving back to the “home place” in 1996, but only after a tedious four year renovation. Dick worked for a an Engineering firm and an Architectural firm before going to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District. He enjoyed challenging and interesting work for 28 years before he retired in 1991. Dick enjoyed old tractors, hunting and traveling with Julie. He was a quiet man with great empathy and interest in people. He was an active member in the Valley Historical Society, Elkhorn Grange, NRA, Retired Omaha District Engineers Association and Military Vehicle Association. Dick enjoyed fried chicken and a cold beer. Dick passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2013 at his home in Valley, Nebraska at the age of 82 years and one month. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walt and Mary. Dick is survived by his wife Julie of Valley and sister Barbara Allen of Omaha and many friends and cousins. Flag Allen, Richard (Dick) age 82 years of Valley, NE Survived by wife Julia; sister Barbara Allen of Omaha; many cousins and friends; Visitation Tuesday Noon to 8 pm with family receiving friends from 6 to 8; funeral Wednesday 11 AM all at the funeral home in Elkhorn. Interment Prospect Hill Cemetery; Military Honors conducted by American Legion Post #58 of Valley; Memorials to the American Legion; condolences to www.reichmuthfuneralhomes.com Reichmuth Funeral Home 21901 W. Maple Rd 402-289-2222

Richard Allen

August 28, 1931 - September 28, 2013