B. N. "Ben" Allen
October 21, 1932 ~ June 23, 2010 (age 77) 77 Years OldShare using:
Ben was born on October 21st, 1932 in Dallas Texas, to Edward Dalton Allen and Fannie Lee McClure. He spent his childhood in Dallas until 1951 when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He met and married Ethel Crawford in 1956, in Lakeside.
After serving 21 years on active duty, 4 years in the Marine Corps, and 17 years in the United States Navy, he retired in 1972, and located in Ramona in 1974. He served during the Korean War and two tours in Viet Nam. He remained on the active reserves list for 5 years. His total service to his country was 26 years and upon retirement his rank was Chief Petty Officer.
Ben was employed for twenty five years as a comptroller of V.I.P. Printing in San Diego.
In 2003, Ben participated in the Senior Olympics, winning the gold medal for speed walking. He surprised everyone since he had suffered two heart attacks in 2001, but made life changing choices that would introduce him to a healthier way of life. He participated in many charity walks including but not limited to the San Diego Bridge Walk, Carlsbad and Toys for Tots.
He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2006, which eventually took his life on June 23rd, 2010.
He is preceded in death by three sons, Robert Murphy Allen of Lakeside, Anthony Scott Allen of Ramona and Charles Edward Allen serving in the United States Army, stationed in Baumholder, Germany.
He is survived by his daughter and son in law, Debra and Hardy Hanson of Ramona, grandchildren Kathleen Hanson Guzman and husband of Ramona, Ted Hanson of Ramona, Alisa Allen Baird and husband of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and 3 great grandchildren.
He will be buried with full military honors and interred at Nuevo Gardens Cemetery, July 7th, 2010, at 11am. Funeral arrangements provided by Bonham Bros. & Stewart Mortuary of Ramona, California.
