Walter Van Allen, 89, Rochester

Walter Van Allen, 89 of Rochester, passed away on June 22, 2021 at Seasons Hospice Home, surrounded by his family.

Walter was born on October 8, 1931 in Donna, Texas to Verne and Sarah (Allphin) Van Allen.  

When he was eight years old, his family moved to Kasson, where they farmed on his grandfather’s farm. Lucky for him, the country school he attended, Union Springs of Canisteo Township, was only one field away. He attended Kasson High School where he enjoyed football, track and field, and 4-H. He was confirmed and, on July 15, 1950, married Virginia Terry at Kasson Methodist Church.

He started his working career at Hayfield Window Company, and retired after 35 years with Crenlo Inc. in Rochester. He worked first as a welder, and later in the Model Shop. During this time he also farmed, and started a fencing company.

He loved dancing to Big Band/Glen Miller and old-time music with his wife and friends, going on family vacations, and hunting in the Big Horn Mountains. His retirement was filled with trips to the family cabin on Leech Lake which he labeled “A little bit of heaven.” He hosted the family. The fishing poles were rigged up and ready for all, and Walt was known for his family fish-fries using his outstanding secret batter recipe.

He is survived by his wife Virginia of Rochester; his children Cathy (Jim) Huntoon of Mantorville, Charles (Georgia) Van Allen of Duluth, Sara Jane Van Allen of Red Wing, Michael (Mary Kay) Van Allen of Lakewood, Colo.; his sister Margaret (Ernest) Ness of Kasson, his brother Gordon Van Allen of Bella Vista, Alaska; his grandchildren Jamie (Jeremy) Olson, Laura (Broc) Threinen, Eliza (Nick) Pocius, Casey Huntoon, Adam Konrad, Troy (Shaina) Nickila, Kari Van Allen, Katie (Dallas) Farrugia, Krista (John) De Young, Taylor Van Allen; great-grandchildren Addisyn, Myles, Ava, Taya, Vincent, Quincy, Layla, Carter, Malachi, Elijah and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved sister-in-law Deanna.

Walt and his family are grateful for the friends who stayed in touch during his long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

The funeral service for Walt was held on Monday, June 28, 2021 at Christ United Methodist Church with Pastor Nancy Wheeler Handlon officiating. Burial was in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Kasson.

Memorials are preferred to Seasons Hospice Rochester, or Parkinson’s Foundation.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.