Dennis Allen

Dennis “Denny” Allen, 57, of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on August 1, 2021.   Per the wishes of Dennis and his family, cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life will be hosted by the family at a later date. Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Dennis and his family. For additional information or to leave a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.  Dennis Scott Allen was born on March 18, 1964, to Richard Sr. and Shirley (Davis) Allen in Marshalltown. Shortly after graduating high school in his hometown and attending classes at Marshalltown Community College, Denny was blessed to meet to the love of his life, Brian O’Donnell. Denny spent his life caring deeply for many people, including his parents through the end of their lives. He was known to most as “Uncle Denny,” no matter the kinship. He was never shy to sharing his contagious laughter, which could famously be heard over fireworks, traffic, and gun shots. Denny was also an excellent cook, often bringing his delicious Christmas cookies and cheese ball to family events.  Denny’s compassion spread far beyond his family, especially toward design and artistry. He was the self-proclaimed “Sheriff of Lions Park” as he cared for the grounds voluntarily and kept the park under his watchful eye. Denny spent many years working through electronics and music; he gave Walmart customers smiles back in the electronic department and made sure everyone knew when a television was sold. Denny had incredible taste in art; he was the heart behind JC Penney’s holiday displays every year, and he was often placed in charge of how mannequins were styled. Denny was always in the middle of projects, and he would never hesitate to help the next person in need.   Those left to cherish Denny’s memory are his brothers, Richard Allen Jr. and Stephen Allen; his beloved nieces, Jamie (Chris) Birkness and Anna Allen; his beloved nephew, Richard Allen III; his great nieces and nephews, Matthew (Jourdan) Allen, Tyler (Kindra) Birkness, Braden Birkness, Breanna (Gerardo) Perez, Richard Allen IV, Jackson Opperman, and Savannah Opperman; his four great-great nieces and nephews; the O’Donnell family, especially Brian’s parents, sister, brother-in-law, and nephew; and numerous family members and friends.  Denny is reunited in death with his cherished spouse, Brian O’Donnell; his parents; and his infant brother Douglas.