Shirley Ann Allen

Shirley Ann Allen passed away on Christmas day, December 25 at the age of 84 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. Shirley died surrounded by loved ones at the Iron County Medical Care Facility where she lived for the past 5 years. Shirley was born in 1938 in Kingsford, Michigan to the late Tracy and Eloise (Peterson) Wales. She was raised a proud Flivver, participating in the marching band and a variety of school clubs and activities. In the winter months, Shirley was an avid figure skater. After high school, Shirley attended Northern Michigan University where she studied music and elementary education. Later, she earned her Master’s degree in music education from the University of Michigan. While at NMU, Shirley played in the NMU marching band where she caught the eye of her soon to be husband, Richard Allen, out on the gridiron. They met, fell in love, and were happily married for 63 years. After college Shirley and Richard had a short stint in the lower peninsula teaching school but soon returned to the area to raise their 3 children and be closer to family, which was very important to Shirley. This time, they landed on the other side of Woodward Avenue, cheering for the Mountaineers where husband, Richard, coached, and her three children donned the black and gold. Eventually, she returned to her roots and cheered for the Flivvers as her beloved grandchildren took to the courts and fields. Shirley loved her dogs, family, and spending summers at her family camp on Sundog Lake. In retirement, Shirley and Richard enjoyed traveling, hosting family meals, spending time with their grandchildren, and hanging out at camp as much as possible. She especially enjoyed taking an evening cruise on the pontoon boat, or a spin on the Mule. Shirley was known for her offbeat sense of humor and used it well in both her personal and professional life. Sometimes colorful language could be heard while cooking for family gatherings. Despite the commentary, the meals were always made with love. Shirley enjoyed and created music of all kinds and loved sharing it with friends and family. One summer, she even convinced Richard to go on a brief Grateful Dead tour with their daughter Lynne. We especially loved her tales of mastering the triple ratamacue in her days as a drum major in the marching band. She had a tremendous love for her family and a great and endearing spirit. She is survived by her husband, Richard; her children, Craig (Trina) Allen of Kingsford and Lynne (Cory) Pottebaum of Salida, CO; and her grandchildren, Jacob (Maressa) Allen, Hannah (Demetri) Kostakis, Olivia Allen, Emma Allen, and Henry Pottebaum. In addition to her parents, Shirley was also preceded in death by a son, Scott Allen and a brother, Tracy Wales. Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in Shirley’s memory. Condolences to the family of Shirley A. Allen may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.

Shirley Ann Allen

September 15, 1938 - December 25, 2022