Martin James "Jim" Allen's Obituary
Martin James “Jim” Allen, 76, passed away in his home surrounded by his family on Monday, May 18, 2015. After extended stays in the Kansas City area, he joyfully returned home last week where dozens of friends and family members streamed by to visit him. For those who could not make it in person, phone calls and video chats were common. The last week of his life was filled with laughter, love and reflection on a life well lived.
Jim was the eldest son of Ned and Agnes Allen and lived most of his life in Chanute. He was born on November 4, 1938 and graduated from Chanute High School in 1956. He met the love of his life Rosalee Vaughn in junior high school and they were married on June 2, 1962.
Jim and Rosie were blessed with great children in Alexis Allen Riker, Alisa Allen McConnell (husband Rob), Jimmy Allen and Chad Burk. In addition to them, Jim is survived by five grandchildren who were his pride and joy – Alec Riker, Connor Riker, Will Riker, Meg McConnell and Max McConnell. He is also survived by five brothers John, Pat, Dan, Mike and Tim; six sister-in-laws; 45 and one-half nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews; and more friends than one could count.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Ned and Agnes Allen; and he has joined his Rosie, who passed away on April 24, 2013.
Jim was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the Elks, Knights of Columbus and the American Legion. After graduation from Chanute High School he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and reached the rank of Corporal. He attended Neosho County Community College and earned an associate arts degree before embarking on a extremely successful sales career.
In 1978 he founded Jim Allen Packaging in Chanute. The company grew into one of the best suppliers of boxes, ribbon and wrapping paper in the Heartland. He also launched Paper Place, Inc., Im-Pres Label Company and Hi-Tek Design. Jim was highly regarded by his employees, colleagues, retailers and competitors alike.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, May 22 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Chanute. The family will receive friends for visitation at St. Pat’s at 6 pm on Thursday,May 21 with a Rosary service at St. Pat’s at 7:30 pm.
Memorials in Jim’s name may be made to the Polycystic Kidney Foundation (PDK) at 8330 Ward Parkway #510, Kansas City, MO 64114 or the (Catholic affiliated) Pregnancy Crisis Center, 1040 N. West St., Wichita, KS 67203 or may be left with Countryside Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com.
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