Michael Steven Allen

Michael Allen Obituary

Michael Steven Allen, 56, of Roanoke, Va., passed away suddenly on Thursday, June 17, 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel and Ernest Allen; and his grandparents, Eldridge and Jessie Brookman, and Elmer and Billie Allen. Those left to cherish his memory are his sister, Carolyn Allen Burnett and husband, Dan; special nephew, David Michael Burnett; special niece, Sheri Lynn Burnett; and his beloved cat, Max. Michael left behind several loyal and special friends, Diane Davis, Michael Boitnott, and Mike Thompson; and special neighbor, Violet Muncy. A special thanks to his coworkers at Carpet Land on Plantation Road. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Roanoke Valley SPCA, P.O. Box 1863, Roanoke, Va. 24022. A Memorial Service will be held 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 20, 2010, at Oakey's North Chapel with the Rev. Elmo McLaurin officiating. The family will be receiving friends one hour before the service. Arrangements by Oakey's North Chapel & Crematory, 540-362-1237.

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Published by Roanoke Times from Jun. 19 to Jun. 20, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Allen

12 Entries

Pam Voth

June 21, 2010

Michael was one of my best friends, during my early 20's-30's, after having graduated from VCU, both in art, but only to have met afterward in Roanoke, we shared an instant bond. Our mutual love of abstract painting and all things related to making art, was what pulled us together. I was privileged to have known him as both a friend and an artist. I was also proud that he asked me to be his "best man" at his wedding to Pat, also a wonderful person who shared his life for awhile.

I deeply regret that I lost touch with Michael these last many years. I used to ask him time and again to come up to NYC for a visit. He did once and we had a great time but he was a man that stayed close to his home. His world was about art, writing, creative thinking, and he was so incredibly gifted, many will sadly not know just how talented he was, as he was very private. I am proud to have a few paintings, and all his books he wrote- one painting is titled "Boo, Forever", which is so
Michael.

Dear Michael, know that you were very much loved and respected and that you had a huge influence on all of my artistic endeavors when we connected all those great years. It was so much fun hanging out- Ann, Barbara, Betsey, Phil, Greg, Richard... and so many more in our little group. Make art in Heaven now!

Your friend,
Pam Voth

Greg Voth

June 21, 2010

Michael was one of my best friends in my Roanoke days. He was a special man, with a wonderful spirit and infectious wit. Though we grew apart - distance will do that - he was always in my thoughts. Truly one of the best men I've known. He will be missed.

Barbara Birge

June 21, 2010

I am deeply saddened to learn of Mike's passing. He was the dearest, funniest friend and a brother to me when we were in our 20's. Mike was generously present to his friends, inspiring the best in others. Some may remember our "Sunday Morning Breakfast Club," and Mike could always be counted on to be there, bringing laughter and great discussion to that weekly gathering. The world has lost a bright, gentle man.

June 20, 2010

MIke Allen was a very good man and friend to many of us in an art group in Roanoke in our "youth." He knew so much about contemporary art and art history and was at the center of it. He was gentle and kind person and encouraged many of us to push to do our best work, but most of all, he was a very good friend.
I was sorry to miss his service today, as my cousin's
service in SW VA was at the same time. My love to you and your family, dear Mike.
Ann Glover

Devona Terry

June 20, 2010

I personally do not recall ever having the opportunity to meet Michael yet feel as if I did from many stories and mentions of him over the years from my Husband Cleveland who worked with him at Carpetland; from this alone I would like to attest to what a wonderful man he was and how many lives he touched. I know he will be profoundly missed by all who knew him and what he believed in. I extend my deepest sympathies to his entire family, friends and loved ones.

Cleveland Terry

June 20, 2010

Mike was a wonderful, kind-hearted man with a great intellectual and liberal mind that will be dearly missed as much as he will be. He always kept our spirits bright at Carpetland. I always looked forward to talking to him about the news topics and political issues of the day. The world has truly lost a good man, and Carpetland has lost one of our family. I extend my deepest sympathy to all who knew Mike and loved him. He will be missed.

Cleveland Terry

June 20, 2010

Mike was a great liberal minded individual, and the world has truly lost a good man with his passing. He will be deeply missed by his loved ones and his co-workers at Carpetland. Your memory will remain in our minds and hearts always. Our daily political conversations will be missed.

Diane M. Davis

June 20, 2010

He was possessed of immeasurable intelligence, expressed through his passionate creativity. A TRUE ARTIST, of magical and magnificent images, his mind always spinning. His poetry, touching expressions of the human heart displayed so beautifully, at times reaching the deepest depths of his soul, where no other dare to go.

Michael,
You have finally “TRIPPED THE LIGHT FANDANGO!
YOU GENTLE FROG PRINCE!”
You have filled our lives with Love, Laughter, and the strongest bond of Friendship one could ever have. You have enriched our world with your BEING.
For those whose hearts are grieving, be thankful and FEEL BLESSED by our Lord who, with purpose, shared Michael with us.

Your Friend, Diane

Ashley Brown

June 19, 2010

Mike was a great man and we will all miss him at Carpetland. To his family and friends, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
With Deepest Sympathies,

Lynn Cooper

June 19, 2010

Dear Carolyn, Dan, David and Sheri Lynn,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother and uncle.Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless You and take care of you in this difficult time.
With Love & Deepest Sympathy,
John, Lynn, and Family

Marilyn Perdue

June 19, 2010

I have very special memories of time spent and shared with Michael and Diane. My thoughts and prayers are with all who loved Michael.

Cyndi & Norm Riley

June 19, 2010

Mike Allen was like a second brother to me through his long time friendship with my brother Mike Boitnott. He will be greatly missed for his love and devotion to his friendships and his great personality. He had always been there for my brother and our family. Our prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. We love and deeply miss you Mike.

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