"My heartfelt sympathy to your family. I became acquainted with Gert this last year as, along with my parents, she was a resident at the Woodlands and I would see her at mealtimes once or twice a day. Gert and my mother and I would sit together and talk and usually find a few things to smile about. I came to love Gert and it was easy to tell she was a loving and caring person with a sweet twinkle in her eye. I feel blessed to have known her and I know she will be missed by all who knew her. May your memories give you comfort and joy. God bless. "
In loving memory of
Gertrude M. Allen
January 1, 1928 - November 21, 2019
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to Algona Community School Foundation or Trinity Lutheran Church.
On November 21, 2019, at the age of 91, surrounded by her loving family, Gert Allen's long life of service and caring for others came to a peaceful end.
Gertrude Marie (Zahn) Allen was born on January 1, 1928 in Readlyn, Iowa. Gert grew up in Waverly, Iowa. She was the youngest of seven children. Gert had a wonderful childhood with her family and friends. Although Gert's early years were wonderful, they were not without hardship. Her brother, Harry was killed in World War II and Gert herself barely survived a plane crash when she was a teenager.
After graduating from Waverly High School, Gert attended Wartburg College in Waverly. At Wartburg, Gert met the love of her life, Elgin Allen. Gert was a football cheerleader at Wartburg and Elgin, having just returned from Naval Service in World War II, was their quarterback. They were married on June 27, 1948.
The Allens first moved to Pocahontas, Iowa to begin their careers in education, with Gert teaching Kindergarten. Gert and Elgin loved teaching and soon had children of their own to teach, love and care for. Gert and Elgin had five children: Jeff, Greg, Doug, Barb and Mike. After also living in Cylinder and Lake City, the Allen family settled in Algona in 1960 and lived there for nearly sixty years.
Gert was devoted to her family, to her church and to her community. She served on several circles at Trinity Lutheran Church and served in numerous capacities on the hospital auxiliary for many years. She attended countless sporting, choral and band events at Algona High and was a supportive parent and fan. Gert also loved spending time in Waverly with the Zahn family. She and Elgin rarely missed a Wartburg Homecoming weekend. Gert enjoyed golf, bridge, walks and Thursday lunches with friends. Whether it was volunteering, spending time with family and friends or helping students at Algona High succeed in school and in life, Gert always acted with compassion and encouragement.
Gert was the best mother, grandmother and great-grandmother anyone could have. All her family members have special memories of their time spent with her. The love she shared and the lessons she taught us will always be remembered.
Gert was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elgin; her parents Arthur and Martha Zahn; her brothers Wally, Art, Al, Harry, Dick and sister, Emma; and her great-granddaughter, Celia. Gert is survived by her children Jeff (Mikki) Allen, Omaha, NE; Greg (Susan) Allen, Lincoln, NE; Doug (Christine) Allen, Denver, CO; Barb (Lee) Elms, San Antonio, TX; and Mike (Catherine) Allen, Overland Park, KS. Gert was also blessed with 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly.
Tributes
"I always loved Gert and Elgin....great friends of my parents and always people we looked up to and admired. Our condolences to a great family."
"So sorry to hear about your mom, Jeff. She was a wonderful person. God bless all your family during this difficult time. Prayers and hugs, Scott and Nancy Case"
"Sending thoughts and prayers to comfort the family. Mrs. Allen always brought a smile to my day. She was a wonderful person and always thought of others. She will be missed but she will forever remain in our hearts."
"Sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. but you were all so fortunate to have had her in your life for so many years. I always enjoyed visiting with her when I worked for your Dad at school. She was a very friendly and kind person. May all the fond memories of her ease your sorrow! God Bless....JoAnn (Klemm) Thilges"
"So sorry for the loss of your Mom. May God wrap his arms around each one of you & give you peace ??"
"Our condolences to the Allen family. Gert was a wonderful, always happy woman. I so enjoyed our choir practices together. She added that little sparkle to everything. She and Elgin were both two special people who will hold a special place in our hearts forever. We were blessed to have known them both."
"My condolences and sympathies for the Allen family. Gert was an amazing lady, a great friend to me in my younger years and never forgot anything when I was coming home to visit! God bless this woman and the man that meets her at the heavenly gates!! I live them both to the moon and back??"
"I spent many hours in ?24? with Mrs.Allen. I am thinking of your family and extend my deepest sympathy."
"I extend my sympathy to the family and friends of the Allen family"