Allen Paul Gerritsen

To the family of Allen:
We have been privileged to have known and worked with Allen and his brother John. Allen was always such a pleasant person to be with. We will miss him. Our prayers are with you at this time. We pray for the Lord to bless you with peace and comfort.
Bruce Wallgren
Bill Garrick
Donna Wallgren

I was so sorry and sad to read of the loss of your husband, father, and son. I was unable to attend the funeral, but my thoughts were constantly with you. He was such a good man and it is a great loss. My deepest condolences to you all. Maxine (Anderson) Babalis

Much love to the Gerritsens.

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Allen was a faithful customer at Shivers and we always enjoyed serving him...not to mention we were blessed to have Andrew as an employee who was always thoughtful, responsible, and kind...a reflection of his father. May peace fill your hearts!Nancy, family and Shivers Crew.

I was sad to read Allen's obituary in the paper too late for me to attend the funeral. What an impact he made on me in such a small and simple way. He, along with another dear friend taken too early, Carma Peters, took me under their wing offering compassionate and wise support to a young adult. I was privileged to work with them both at an Instacare just prior to marrying. The two of them presented me with my temple clothing as a gift in preparation to go through the temple. What I love...

Allen was president of Seminary choir the year I sang. He came to my basement bedroom and photographed my naked back for a choir activity (I think we were being kidnapped for some activity). I remember being really tired. It was a fun carefree (relatively) time of life that I will always remember. Allen was a gentle kind soul that I will miss. I'm sorry that I couldn't reconnect before his passing. Godspeed dear friend.

Allen often worked behind the scenes while others took the credit for what he organized and worked hard to accomplish. A wonderful cousin and friend. He will continue to influence all he knew as he works on the other side of the veil to honor his heritage, his family he left on this earth, and in heirs. Allen was and is a great man.

To the Knaphus and Gerritsen families:

It is with sadness that we at the Norwegian Emigrant Museum hear of the passing of Allen Gerritsen. Allen was a prime mover in the project which resulted in a copy of the “Handcart Pioneers” Statue being erected here in Norway. That statue, created by Thorleif Knaphus, has become a popular element of the museum's outdoor section. Indeed, the most recent photograph showen to the public, was published three days ago - the day after Allen passed...

I always thought Allen was such a kind soul. He will be missed. Our sympathy and prayers go out to you Julie and to your family.