Gary Lee Allen formerly of Sturgeon, MO left this life on April 23, 2021 at the home of his son with his beloved dog Vienna at his side.
A life celebration for Gary will be held 10:00 AM Friday April 30, 2021 at Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home in Centralia followed by graveside services with full military honors 12:00 PM Friday, April 30, 2021 at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, MO.
To those attending the visitation and service, we ask that you wear a face mask, and maintain social distancing. Be aware that capacity and seating may be limited. We will follow guidelines set forth by Boone County.
Gary was born on January 1 ,1951. He was the first baby born in Boone county that year. In his youth he enjoyed working on his family farm and spending time with lifelong friends the Hallsville class of '69. After high school Gary joined the US Navy and spent his time in the service on the USS Enterprise during Vietnam. When his service to this country was over he worked as a potato farmer in Washington state before returning to MO. Gary was a hard worker that spent a large portion of his life driving as an over the road truck driver.
Gary is best known for his dedication to family and friends and his skill at growing tomatoes. Which he would spend summers canning with his mother. Gary was an easy going, laid back guy that preferred to be drinking a beer in his recliner with one of his favorite dogs, enjoying a race at Moberly Speedway or watching his line on some MO river. He was quick with a smile or hug and never gave up on the ones he loved. Gary was a loving and caring father, friend, grandfather and great-grandfather whose loyalty and devotion to his family will be sorely missed but as promised NEVER FORGOTTEN.
Gary is survived by his children, Deja Gravitt and husband Ray of Waxahachie, TX, Charity Blankenship and husband Jesse of Sioux Falls, SD, Shaun Allen and wife Julie Jones of Columbia. His grandchildren, Leanne Richards, Clarrissa Schlebach, Cody Young, Timothy Young, Anthony Young, Emily Allen and Angelina Allen and six great-grandchildren.
Gary was proceeded in death by his parents Patsy and Roy Allen, daughter Mandy Allen and brother Larry Allen.
Memorial donations are suggested to the Humane society and may be sent in care of Fenton- Kendrick funeral home 104 S. Collier Centralia, MO 65240