Herbert Ray Allen

Herbert Ray Allen, 85, of Butler, passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 24, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born June 25, 1940, in New Brighton, Pa., Herb was the devoted husband of Bonnie Jean Steele Allen, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with love, family, and community.

He is survived by three children, Shelley Steighner (Steven) of Butler, Jeffrey Allen (Leesa Namesnik Allen) of Mechanicsburg, Pa., and Marcie Schirmer (Timothy) of Murrysville, Pa; his sister, Victoria Schontz of Butler; and three nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert S. Allen and Dorothy Druschel Allen; and his brother-in-law, Kenneth Schontz.

"Pappy" Herb was the proud grandfather of seven: Ashley McCandless (Justin), Matthew Steighner, Jeffrey Allen, Michael Allen, Brooke Schirmer, Ryan Schirmer, and Justin Schirmer. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Savannah, Tanner, and Kennedy McCandless.

He was a member of All Saints Parish, St. Paul Roman Catholic Church.

Herb dedicated almost 40 years to Butler Armco, "The Mill", where he worked in the metallurgy lab. Outside of work, he was a supporter of Butler basketball and he would be seen at both home and away games. Herb enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, and tinkering endlessly with projects. There was nothing that he couldn't fix.

Summertime was especially cherished, as Herb and Bonnie loved taking their classic cars to local cruises with their "cruiser" friends. Herb was also an active member of the Bon Aire Reunion. He loved taking his Haulin' Bass boat to Moraine to catch crappie or to do some night fishing for striper. He would tell folks his Haulin' Bass was the only cruise ship he'd ever be on. But he was happy to wet his line just about anywhere to catch a fish.

Herb was also known for his daily walks, during which he delighted in stopping to chat with neighbors, friends or strangers along the way, whether at Alameda Park or Memorial Park, the Athletic Field, or the mall, he always saw someone he knew or would find someone to meet and share a story or two.

A man of great generosity and compassion, Herb was always willing to lend a hand. His kindness toward those facing hard times left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Herb's legacy is one of love, resilience, and community spirit. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Friends will be received in the Martin Funeral Home Downtown, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler, on Friday, Nov. 28, from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, at All Saints Parish, St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 128 N. McKean St., Butler, with Rev. Kevin C. Fazio officiating.

Burial will take place in Calvary Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Herb Allen to Butler Catholic School, 515 E. Locust St., Butler, PA 16001.