John Allan
October 01, 2008
Col. John C. Allan, 89, long time resident of Des Moines, died Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at Hillcrest Care Center in Bellevue, Nebraska. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 7, 2008 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, with burial at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
John was born March 18, 1919 to Hugh and Alice Allan in Centerville. He joined the US Army in 1942 and retired as a full Colonel after 30 years of service. John was a member of Simpson United Methodist Church and the Masons.
John is survived by his children, Michael (Sharon) Allan and Barbara (Gary) Thorpe; eight grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma; and two brothers.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Simpson United Methodist Church.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Pastor John P. Dodds
10/06/2008
It was my joy to be Colonel John Allan's pastor for a number of years. He had a dry Scottish wit and a twinkle in his eye when he was telling a funny story. As a career military man he lived the story of honor, respect and greatness. He was a faithful church man helping in any way needed around Simpson Church. He was what every human being should be; kind, loyal, courteous and courageous.
The Allan's had an inviting home. One cold Christmas Eve or close to it, a number of us caroled inside their home. It was a specil moment for everyone.
John was a wonderful storyteller, especially in regard to his military career. I never tired of his stories.
I am not sure that John ever got over the loss of his wife, Thelma. She was the love of his life. In fact, one never said John without the next word being Thelma. I marveled at their sweet devotion to each other. I always wanted a marriage like that.
I know how proud John was of his family. He always beamed when speaking of his family.
I was saddened when John and Thelma moved to Omaha, Nebraska because there were no duplications of either of them. However, it gave John and Thelma time with Mike and family which was good for all.
Simply put in my 57 year of life, 28 years of full-time ministry. I have never met a better man than Colonel Allan. He was everything I wish I was. My life was indeed enriched because of my friendship with the Allan's. What a powerful legacy he leaves to all of us. He will be terribly missed, but always in our hearts. I loved John and Thelma.
Sincerely,
Pastor John P. Dodds
Brooklyn Grace United Methodist
Brooklyn, IA