Obituary of Willis Allen

Allen, Willis D. "Bill" Saginaw, Michigan Passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 17, 2018 at Mid Michigan Medical Center - Midland. He was 72 years old. Bill Allen was born on July 23, 1945 in Saginaw, to the late Claude and Bessie (Fischer) Allen. Bill worked at Eaton Manufacturing as a machinist for 37 years, retiring in 2002. He was a sports enthusiast, outstanding coach and mentor to many youth while he coached baseball at Eisenhower, Heritage and Arthur Hill High Schools and North Little League, for 17 years. When not coaching he refereed high school basketball for the State of Michigan for 27 years. Bill's love for competition did not stop at basketball and baseball. He personally enjoyed playing championship racquetball for over 30 years and senior softball in Arizona for 17 years. Bill loved to travel with his wife, Kathy, spending summers in Michigan and wintering in Mesa, Arizona. He was a faithful member of St. Dominic Parish - St. Stephen Catholic Church and the YMCA. Bill's zest for life, kindness, and passion for his family will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Kathy Allen; daughter, Kelly (Jerry) Monnin; son-in-law, Dr. Randy Sosolik; five grandchildren (who were the sparkle in his eye): Emily and Madison Sosolik, Delaney, Heidy and Vince Monnin; sister, Ellie Near; and niece, Wendy Near. Bill was preceded in death by his daughter, Tammy Allen Sosolik; sister, Ruth Snedeker; and niece, Cathy Near. SERVICE: A memorial service for Bill will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Pastoral Associate, Sharon Wahl will officiate. Family and friends are welcome to gather at the funeral home on Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the service to share stories as Bill always did, as he has never met a stranger. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Novel Catholic Central High School-Athletic Department, Good Neighbor Mission or the Salvation Army. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com