Barbara Lucille Allen

Barbara "Barb" Lucille Allen, Vicksburg, MI Barbara Lucille Allen, 79, passed away Sunday, October 20, 2013 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. Barbara was born May 13, 1934, to the late David H. Mathis and the late Marion R. Hudson. She was born in Kalamazoo, MI and resided in the Kalamazoo -Vicksburg area her entire life. On June 29, 1963 she married John W. Allen., her partner in life and marriage for the next 50 years. Barb and John were a team that worked, loved and laughed together while raising a family and taking care of their home. In her early and middle years she held various full time manufacturing jobs always with dedication and a strong work ethic. Once the children were grown and she no longer worked outside the home she pursued her interests in gardening, sewing, crafting, golfing, traveling and most of all helping her children and grandchildren in any way she could. Barb was a strong woman, yet compassionate and sensitive. She loved her family and friends and especially enjoyed the many gatherings and celebrations at home in the back yard. She is survived by her husband, John Allen four children and spouses, 4 grandchildren and two sisters and families: daughter, Pat Hjertos and granddaughter Donielle Hetrick, Leonidas, MI; daughter, Deb (Hjertos) and Bob Galler and granddaughter Katie Galler, Vicksburg/Kalamazoo; son, Mike Allen and fiancée Kathleen Vroman,Vicksburg; son, David and Sonya Allen and grandchildren Chad (Lauren) Heath and Audrey Heath, Portage. Two sisters: Marian Ellen Daley, Coldwater and Beverly Cheatham and family, Parchment. She was preceded in death by two brothers: Rob Mathis and David "Bud" Mathis. Cremation has taken place. Burial will be at Schoolcraft Township Cemetery, Vicksburg, MI, at a later date. In appreciation for such kind and gentle care for Barbara we would like to direct memorial donations to Rose Arbor Hospice Residence, 5473 Croyden Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.