Obituary of Dorothy Allen

Allen, Dorothy Bessie, daughter of August Carl Barthman and Mabel Alice Yockey, sister of Ruth, Wife of Sam, mother of James, Mother-in-law of Barbara, grandma of Megan, Brian, Kelly and Tracy, great-grandma of Anna and Joshua. Irish and German by descent, Lutheran by heritage. Born Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Died one month short of her 90th birthday. Played piano and "swam like a fish" as a child. Was USO volunteer, rolled bandages and worked as a nurse's aide as part of "war effort back home" during WWII. Lived most of her life in Milwaukee, Denver, Colorado Springs or Albuquerque. Single parented her son from age of 2 years. Faithful Civil Service employee of 28+ years. "An excellent typist" by her own description. Love of music (especially "Big band"), dancing, singing, playing bridge, telling a good joke, toasting a special occasion, wearing bright colors, coloring her hair "reddish" as in her youth, long nails, travel (especially "weekend capers"), romance novels, Tom Selleck, polyester "easy to pack" clothes, mail-order gifts, "The Rockford Files" TV series, mountains (especially Pike's Peak in Colorado), swimming, lakes (Especially Nashotah in Wisconsin) Enjoyed the loyal friendship of a number of caring individuals throughout her life. In her retirement, a volunteer at hospital and clothing store for needy. Final 6 ½ years spent in Sun City Center and Brandon, Florida In her last months, a grateful recipient of compassionate and loving hands of Brandon Health and Rehab Center staff.In her memory, enjoy life to the fullest……and give generously in support of Alzheimer's Research