Gerald Leon Allen

He attended grade school in Marshall, Michigan and Kenowa Hills High School in Walker. After graduating, Jerry enlisted in the Army. He proudly served his country in Thailand as a quarter master during the Vietnam War.

After his honorable discharge, he spent his career working for CSX Railroad working himself up through the company starting as a lineman and retiring in 2011 as a conductor.

He was a motorcycle enthusiast and attended several annual Blessing of Bikes in Baldwin, Michigan. Jerry also was an animal lover and over the years rescued numerous stray cats.

Jerry is survived by his sister, Christina Holmquist; his brothers, Phillip (Stephanie) Allen and Kenneth (Kathy) Allen; 10 nieces and nephews; 13 great-nieces and nephews, and 4 great-great nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Clark and Hazel (Welch) Allen; his sister Margaret Allen; his brother Charles (Teresa) Allen and his nephew Tell Allen.

The family would like to thank the Spectrum Health Hospice staff for their care, guidance and support. They are especially grateful to Phil, Judy and Elise.

A visitation for Gerald will be held Tuesday, December 21, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Ave N.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505. A memorial service will occur Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Reyers North Valley Chapel.

Contributions in Gerald's memory may be made to Special Olympics Michigan, 160 68th St. SW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49548 US, https://www.somi.org/.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.reyersnorthvalleychapel.com for the Allen family.