William R. Allen

William Robert Allen, also known as Bob, Bobby, Grandpa, Papaw, Daddy'O, Dad, and Pastor Allen, age 81, of Akron, passed away on September 9, 2024. He was born in Parkersburg, WV, on March 15, 1943, to Bill and Nina Allen. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Dan and Tom. Bob is survived by his loving wife Shirley, his brother Gary (Diane); son David (Carol) Allen, daughters Laura (Craig) Rymer, and Debra (Ralph) Martin, and niece, Jeri L. Caronite, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, many bonus grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, who he treated as his own children. 

Bob served as a military policeman in the Army from 1963-1965, where he was assigned to the Panama Canal during a police action. He was an ordained minister and officiated several weddings over the years. He had an infectious laugh that brought joy and laughter to all those who knew and loved him. Bob began singing at the age of eleven with his older brother, Dan. He was the lead singer of the band "The Four Aces", of Akron. He and his brother competed in Parkersburg's televised singing talent competition over several weeks. He began attending church and singing gospel music in the 70's and eventually became an ordained minister, serving as the assistant pastor of the Lighthouse Gospel Church in Akron under Rev. John Keys. Bob had an angelic voice and played the guitar. He and Shirley sang beautifully together. He shared his knowledge and experience with family members and friends, helping them to learn to sing and play the guitar. Bob's love of music brought hundreds to appreciate and love music. His passion for sharing God's word inspired many to give their lives to God. His legacy of love, music, laughter, spirituality, and tradition will live on through so many. Our world will forever be changed, not only by the loss of our beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, but by the difference he made in our lives. His talents, laughter, love, and compassion will live on through those he loved and nurtured. His spirit will forever live in each of our hearts.

A memorial service will be held on September 27, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at New Life Church (4415 Darrow Rd, Stow, OH 44224). In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the family to help defray funeral cost (131 N Canton Rd, Akron, OH 44305).