Ralph W. Allen

ALLEN, Ralph W.
of Kalamazoo Ralph passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at Bronson Methodist Hospital. He was born November 6, 1934 in Muscatine, Iowa, the son of the late Charles and Cecilia Strickland Allen. On September 4, 1953, he was united in marriage to Nancy VanDeWalker. Ralph was employed by Western Michigan University for 31 years until his retirement in 1995. He was very active with Oakwood Little League for over 20 years and was an avid golfer. Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Nancy Allen; their four sons, Dan Jan Allen of Grand Rapids, Mark Gail Allen of Portage, Charles Allen of Plainwell, and Steven Allen of Kalamazoo; eight grandchildren, Jillon Justin Kohmescher, Jordan Allen, Max Allen, Sara Rusty Russell, Lisa Ned Stacy, Amanda Kyle Burnett, Amber Allen and April Allen; 8 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Marion Rowlison of Mattawan and Shirley Lewnfield of Kalamazoo; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were an infant son, Albert Allen and great-granddaughter, Grace Stacy. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 AM on Monday at St. Augustine Catholic Cathedral, 542 W. Michigan Ave., with Msgr. Thomas A. Martin celebrant. Following the mass, food and fellowship will be shared in the Fr. Crowley Cathedral Center. Memorial contributions may be directed to West Michigan Cancer Center or a charity of one's choice. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th Street.