James Noel Allen

ALLEN James Noel Allen, 83, of Rochester, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at the Seasons Hospice House. Jim was born December 13, 1935 in Minot, ND to William and Eulalie (Huckle) Allen. He was a graduate of Minot Model High School and went on to receive his Bachelor of Science in physical education and mathematics from Minot State College. After obtaining his bachelor degree, Jim went on to receive his Masters in mathematics and statistics from NDSU. Along with his education, Jim also proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as a mid-shipman in Annapolis, MD. On August 10, 1958 at Hurricane Lake Lutheran Church in York, ND, Jim married his beautiful bride, Lorelie Marchus. Jim started his career as a physical education teacher and coaching wrestling and hockey. He spent most of his career as a computer analyst but also spent time in the classroom teaching math and time farming. He was a member of Mercy Hill Church, The Disabled American Veterans group and The Gideons, where he also participated in a prison ministry. Jim was an avid reader, an exceptional tennis player, enjoyed traveling and going for drives, just to explore things off the beaten path. He had a deep appreciation for not only sports but for music and fine arts. He was social, patient, giving, inquisitive and showed his perseverance, while never giving up. Those who knew Jim appreciated his unique and dry wit. Jim enjoyed coffee with friends and loved to turn dinners into celebrations with family and friends. He was a selfless and kind man. Above all, Jim loved his Lord. He accepted The Lord as his Savior at the young age of 19 and continued to live his life sharing the word of God. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Lorelie; children, Pamela (David) Damiano of Owatonna, MN, Paul (Jess) Allen of Plainview, MN; grandchildren, Everett Allen and Ariel Allen and sister, Judy (Jerry) Spitzer of Minot, ND. Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Scammon; brothers, J and Howard Allen and by his parents, William and Eulalie. A funeral service to celebrate Jim's life will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester with the Rev. Gary Seaquist officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date at the Preston State Veterans Cemetery. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Allen family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com