Herbert James (Jim) Allen Obituary (1942

Jim Allen passed away peacefully in his home on 20 January 2016 from an aggressive cancer. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Lynn Birch Allen, and his five children: Spencer James Allen (Beth), Marc Stewart Allen (Laura), Jon Jeffrey (JJ) Allen (Sandy), Camilla Allen Miller (Gary), Richard Mack Allen (Veronica) and fifteen grandchildren. Jim was born 18 October 1942 in Bingham to Herbert Mack and Martha Watts Allen. He was the oldest of seven: Robert Paul Allen (Linda), Virginia Allen Parry (Lloyd), Perry Mack Allen (Nanette), Mark Randall Allen (Joni, deceased, then Vivian), Alayne Allen Merritt (Rand), and Tracy Duane Allen (Joy). Jim experienced a childhood of farming in Midvale (Fort Union), Utah. He helped raise rabbits, chickens, pigs, and cows to provide food for the family in addition to planting and weeding the crops. His mother instilled in him a love for music and encouraged diligent practice on his accordion until he cultivated confidence and enjoyment in performing. He served a mission to Uruguay, being the last of the 2 1/2 year missionaries without previous language training. That mission was unique in that he served in two music bands, touring the country raising funds for church buildings. Following his mission, in 1966, he married his favorite dancing partner and sweetheart of four years in the Salt Lake Temple. He taught accordion lessons, formed a dance band, managed Progressive Music in downtown Provo, as well as owned and managed The Dance Shoppe. In 1987 he completed a BS degree in Social Work from Brigham Young University, and in 1989 an MSW from New Mexico Highlands University, later becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. His social work career included positions locally with Behavioral Therapist Associates and Northeastern Counseling Center in Vernal. He finished his career self employed as a youth and family counselor. His greatest accomplishment was his fatherhood and being accessible to his children. His love of camping, fishing, boating, scouting, and the outdoors in general led them on many adventures discovering life and self. He served numerous positions in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including ward financial clerk under three bishoprics, assistant scout master, and as a missionary for LDS Family Services. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon, Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the Edgemont 7th Ward Chapel, 555 East 3230 North, Provo, Utah. Friends may call at the Berg Mortuary of Provo, 185 East Center Street, Friday, January 22, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. and at the church Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Provo City Cemetery. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.bergmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to LDS Humanitarian aid.