Richard Allen

Richard Wheeler Allen (Dick) 85, of Leyden, MA passed away on Monday March 1, 2021 unexpectedly at Athol Hospital. He was born in Pittsfield, MA at the House of Mercy on May 9, 1935 to the late Arthur and Emily (Bridges) Allen.

My father grew up in Southampton most of his life on a small farm.  In his teens he started working for Pomeroy Dairy in Easthampton, then on to Harris Milk in Belchertown and then to a company in New York where he eventually retired from. He began a Bulk truck milk pick up from Vermont to CT. My father was known and liked by every farmer and restaurant that was on his route; he would often sit and exchange stories, most likely embellished for more enjoyment.  I loved my Dad, and am proud to say that I am “The Milkman’s kid”.  At the young age of 81 he was forced to leave the career he loved, still believing he could have continued to drive his route.

One of my father’s loves was hot rods and trucks, he owned a 1997 GMC Sierra Chevy that he would show at local car shows winning a few trophies. His grandson and son-in-law surprised him once with tickets to the Barrett Jackson car show.

My father loved country living and for the past 37 years my father lived on a farm in Leyden. He would sit on the porch and chat with Sid and Deb and before you knew it there would be a crowd of farmers and friends sharing their stories. His friend Sid would say, “You just never know what stories are true”.  You would see my father on Friday evenings at auctions in Deerfield, and he would usually come up with some great finds that he would place on his shelf to admire.

He is survived by his daughter Pennilee, her husband, Marty, his sons Dale Allen and Jason Allen, his sister Cheryl Wilkinson, her husband, Mark, his brother Neil Allen , his wife, Gloria, 6 Grandchildren and 4 Great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sisters Beverly Hart, Joyce Bazanchuk, brothers Arthur, Craig and his twin brother Robert.

There will be a celebration of the life of Richard Wheeler Allen later this spring.

I would truly like to thank Mitchell Funeral Home for holding my heart and hands through this time.

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