Mary Allen

Mary Frances Allen, 78, of Cedar Rapids, IA, formerly of Topeka, passed away on Monday, December 27, 2010 at a Cedar Rapids, IA hospital.

She was born November 28, 1932 in Topeka, the daughter of C.A. and Gladys Fix Hutton. She graduated from Highland Park High School. She was quite musical all her life, playing drums in the high school band. She met her future husband, Norman Allen through her 4H and band experiences. Mary later attended Washburn University. After getting married, Mary and Norman made their home in Topeka before moving to Cedar Rapids, IA in 1969. She thoroughly enjoyed attending Theater Cedar Rapids productions as well as Cedar Rapids Symphony Orchestra concerts. Mary was also an avid traveler, touring all over the world. She also organized many local excursions for church groups and friends. Mary brought joy and love to all who knew her. She married Norman G. Allen on August 14, 1954 in Topeka. He preceded her in death in October of 2001.

Survivors include two daughters; Janet Bailey and husband, Dana of Naperville, IL, Patty Poggemiller and husband, Shawn of Dubuque, IA, and four grandchildren; Amanda and Nathaniel Bailey of Naperville, IL, and Tom and Nick Poggemiller of Dubuque, IA.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday at Berryton United Methodist Church where the family will receive friends one hour prior to service time. Graveside committal services will follow at 2:00 p.m. Monday at Mount Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Luke's Hospice, 290 Blairs Ferry Rd., NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel is in charge of arrangements.