Joseph Richard Allen, 94, formerly of St. Petersburg, Florida and Peoria, IL, passed away at 8:35 pm Friday, May 20, 2022 at UnityPoint Methodist in Peoria.

He was born June 26, 1927 in Stonington, IL to the late Joseph H. and Mabel Oathout Allen.  He married T. Darlean Spalding in Taylorville, IL on June 25, 1949.  She preceded him in death on March 27, 2017.  He was also preceded in death by one grandson, Miles Allen Bohm; two brothers, Robert and Loren Allen; and two sisters, Lois Duquenne and Norma Cook.

Surviving are four children, Joseph Allen II, Beverly (Rick) Simkins, John (Tina) Allen, Gail (Scott) Sexton; nine grandchildren, Joe III, Todd, Brigette, Zachary, Joshua, Richard, Nicholas, Christopher, Matthew; twelve great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dale (Helen) Allen, Ray (Nancy) Allen; one sister, Nancy (Larry) Bruce; sister-in-law, Betty Allen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe was a United States Navy WWII and Korean War Veteran.  He worked at Caterpillar Inc. from 1955 until he retired in 1987.

He was an avid bowler, tennis player and artist.  Joe and Darlean enjoyed many years in the Florida sunshine during their retirement.  Both were active in the Boca Ciega Community, where they made their home.  Joe remained in Florida after Darlean's passing, but recently returned to Peoria to be closer to family.

Cremation has been accorded.  A memorial service with Military Honors will be held at 12pm Sunday, June 26, 2022 at the Peoria Heights Congregational Church.  Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.