John Allen, age 89, of Quincy, died on Saturday, April 29, 2023 in Sunset Home. John Allen was born October 5,1933 in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Russell and Blanche White Allen. He worked his entire life in partnership with his brother Richard Allen and father Russ, operating Allen & Sons, Inc., construction company. On April 6,1965 he married Juanita Ruth Poling of Loraine, IL.

In his youth John was very active in Boy Scouts, achieving the highest honor of Eagle Scout, and participated in the Sea Scouts. His natural curiosity lead John into a world of adventure and a love for nature. This enabled him to explore the fields as a young treasure hunter, and mass a collection of arrowheads and other artifacts. From a young age, he was an expert marksman and enjoyed hunting. He once spotted a pileated woodpecker while exploring Long Island Chute on the Mississippi River.

John was a pupil of life and had an enthusiasm for many interests. His passion for oil painting often reflected his time spent in Veracruz, Mexico, and his admiration of the artist Paul Gauguin’s style. Through his art, John leaves a piece of himself behind as a gift of his talents and a loving reminder of his lifetime. He studied many languages including but not limited to Spanish, Portuguese, and French. Hundreds of notebooks attest to this practice. He was quite excited when had learned all his language CDs/VHS tapes/albums could now be accessed through his iPod. John also touched the lives of complete strangers as he spent many hours connecting with people worldwide through his ham radio interests. He was truly a lifelong learner, which inspired his friends and family.

Survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth Upper of Quincy, IL, Katherine (Brian) McCabe of Wheaton, IL, and a son Steven (Nicole) Allen of Glen Ellyn, Il. He is also survived by two sisters, Madelyn (Harry) McLear of Kansas City, MO, and Charlotte (Dave) Grimmer of St. Louis, MO, and his brother Richard Allen of Quincy, Il. John is also survived by his sweet grandchildren Ivan and Hana Allen, Jackson McCabe, and many nieces and nephews on the McLear and Grimmer side of the family.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his son Richard Russell Allen, and his beloved wife Juanita.

There will be no funeral or graveside services in keeping with John’s wishes. His ashes will be interred privately later. In lieu of flowers, the family asked that any memorials be made to Blessed Sacrament Parish of Quincy, Blessing Hospice Services, or Ducks Unlimited. Messages may be shared online at www.dukerandhaugh.com.