Ken Allen

1937 - 2013

Ken Allen passed away on November 8, 2013, at the age of 75, at his home in Sunderland. His loving companion for the past 30 years Karen Caulfield Russo was by his side as was his dear and steadfast friend Todd Wilkins. Ken also leaves behind his two black and white cats Petey and Little Girl whom he adored.
It was in Brooklyn, N.Y. that Ken was born on December 13, 1937 and grew to be a man. At a young age, he developed a code of honor that lasted his entire life. His word was his bond and he would always come to the aid of anyone being bullied or taken advantage of. One of his favorite quotes was that of English historian, commonly known simply as Lord Acton, "Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely".
After graduating from James Madison High School in Brooklyn , N.Y. in 1955, Ken enlisted in the Air Force where he was assigned to the Intelligence Division of Strategic Air Command at Plattsburgh, N.Y., and although Ken was not a professional drummer, it wasn't long before Ken put together a small band made up of fellow enlistees and began playing in the local clubs in and around Plattsburgh on the weekends.
After his discharge, Ken earned a Bachelor's Degree from Brooklyn College while spending his summers as a drummer and emcee at some of the more well-known Catskill resorts.
Upon graduation, he spent 20 years in the advertising business starting at Geyer, Morey & Ballard and J. Walter Thompson and moving on to Willoughby Peerless, a Division of Berkey Photo, as Vice President of Marketing. In 1980 he transitioned to the automotive industry as Sales Manager for Toyota and later Honda until his retirement in 2003 at which time he and Karen moved to Vermont - a life-long dream of his - where he continued to pursue his passion for photography.
Ken was a man of many interests and believed in living life to the fullest. He was an avid reader particularly of American history, and a day did not go by that he did not complete a crossword puzzle. Music played a big part in his life as did photography from a very early age. He also enjoyed target shooting and loved to entertain and was known for his outstanding meatballs. Christmas was his favorite holiday, and he made it magical for those he loved.
If there were but one song to describe Ken, it would be, without a doubt, Frank Sinatra's immortal song "I Did It My Way".
FUNERAL NOTICE: Private funeral services will be held at HANSON-WALBRIDGE & SHEA FUNERAL HOME in Arlington, and Ken will be entombed.
Ken was a life-long lover of animals. If friends wish to honor Ken, memorial gifts to Second Chance Animal Center, P.O. 620, Shaftsbury, VT 05262 would be much appreciated.
To send condolences, visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com.