Allen L. Molitor

Allen L. Molitor – A Legacy of Devotion, Service, and Song

Allen L. Molitor of Winnetka, IL passed away on October 21, 2025 at the age of 94, leaving behind a life rich in love, service and quiet strength. Raised in Storm Lake, Iowa, Allen was one of six children. He was raised in a family where hard work, faith, and integrity were deeply rooted - values that shaped the rest of his life.

A beloved member of his community, Allen spent many years as the manager of the Country Cobbler shoe store and ran the local merchant’s association for decades. His steady presence, honesty, and kindness earned the trust of generations.

He married Lynne Baxter in 2014, with whom he shared continued joy and companionship in his later years. He was a father of two children, Linda "Molly" (David) Jarmusz of Amelia Island, Florida and Kathryn (Tom) Bahr of Ellison Bay, WI. Perhaps most important in his life were his five grandchildren, Nicholas Jarmusz, Mary Frances Jarmusz, Brendan Jarmusz, Thomas Bahr III and Angelina Bahr. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Harris Molitor, his wife of 50 years.

Allen spent many happy years after his retirement babysitting his grandchildren and taking them to music classes and library story hours. He happily drove them to preschool and lessons and enjoyed countless recitals, concerts and special school events over the years.

A man of many passions, Allen was an avid gardener, a skilled cook and an enthusiastic bicyclist. He also had a lifelong love of music. For more than 50 years, he sang in the choir at Faith, Hope & Charity Parish, offering his voice in worship and community with grace and joy. For over 30 years, Allen was a treasured part of Winnetka’s Memorial Day ceremony, lending his voice in tribute to those who served - a tradition that meant a great deal to him as a former service member.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather, as well as a man of faith and music, and a cherished member of his community. Allen’s legacy is one of quiet grace, enduring love, and a life beautifully lived.

A funeral mass will be held at Saints Faith, Hope and Charity Church in Winnetka, IL at 10:30am on Saturday, November 22nd with a visitation with family members at the church at 9:30 am. Memorial contributions can be made to The Cradle in Evanston, IL.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL