Melvin "Mel" Arthur Allen Sr.

Melvin Arthur Allen, Sr. 70 of Fairfield, passed away Saturday, December 26, 2020, at Mercy One Waterloo Medical Center.

Mel was born In Spencer, Iowa to Milo “Mike” and Ruth (Hamrick) Allen. He was the youngest of 3 children, Milo (Sharon) Allen, and Marla (Dick) Kocher. He graduated from Spencer High School in 1968 and then went on to graduate with a BA in Education from University of Northern Iowa in 1972.

He met his better half, Patty Dlugosch, at the young age of 16 and never looked back. Their journey began when they were married in 1970.  Mel was originally hired at Arnold Motor Supply in Ft. Dodge, IA in 1972. They then moved to Fairfield in 1979 when he was promoted to Manage his own store.  Mel and Patty raised 3 children, Jen (Cory), Mel Jr., (Joan) and Jason (Jess.) They also considered themselves fortunate to be surrounded by all of their grandchildren, Ivy, Willow, Quinn, Mason, Jaxen, Casey, Alec, Sophie, Isabel, Tate, Brooklyn, Jo Jo and Great Granddaughter Erika.

Mel truly loved his community and throughout the years he chose to be very involved. He served on the Greater Jefferson County Board, Jefferson County Compensation Board, CALU Board, Booster Club, Catholic Parish Council, Knights of Columbus (Fourth degree), Lions Club, and was recognized as Lion of the Year.  Mel also received the honor of Citizen of the Year in 2004.  He was a member of the Elks, Eagles and currently the only original Chamber of Commerce Ambassador still active since its inception in 1980.

In addition to his community involvement Mel had many personal interests. He was a massive contributor to the Iowa Lottery (an investment with no return), he was on Tuesday night bowling league from 1978 -2018, and he played in the "over 40 softball league" until he was 68 (which he always did in his blue jeans!)  Mel loved the Packers, Hawkeyes and most of all Fairfield Sports. He was an avid donor to Fairfield Highschool and Youth activities. His favorite past time of all though was watching his kids and grandkids. In fact, he was known to cover the entire State on any given weekend to make sure he saw them ALL!

Mel prided himself in being a hard worker. He was the poster child for customer service and was known to go to Arnolds all hours of the day when someone needed help.  Mel never knew a stranger and could always be found with a smile on his face.  He had a unique way of making you feel like you were the most important person in the world the moment he saw you.

Family was Mel’s life! He was a devoted Husband, Dad, Grandpa and Friend. His enthusiasm for life was palpable and his kindness was endless.  Mel was the most optimistic person you'd ever meet, always willing to share encouraging words with everyone. He was the side-line coach for his grandkids and all of their friends. All kids felt a sense of family with him because he was such an encouragement to them as well. To sum it all up Mel was Fair, Generous, Loyal, Honorable, Non-judgmental and FUN!  He was our G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time).

Mel was preceded in death by his parents, Milo “Mike” and Ruth Allen.

Visitation: Tuesday, December 29 from 2-7 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Funeral: Wednesday, December 30 at 10:30 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Live stream of the funeral will be available on the St. Mary’s Fairfield Facebook site (stmarychurchfairfield)

Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Fairfield, IA

In lieu-of flowers, a memorial has been established in Mel’s name.  Cards and memorials may be mailed to Patty Allen, 702 West Tyler, Fairfield, Iowa 52556.

Please follow the COVID guidelines of wearing masks and social distancing.