Obituaries
John Frederick Allen Jr., 55, of Vergennes
VERGENNES — John Frederick Allen Jr., beloved dad, partner, nephew, uncle, son and friend, passed away suddenly at his home in Vergennes, Vt., on Oct. 5, 2024.
He was born in Ticonderoga, N.Y., on July 28, 1969, to the late John Sr. and Phyllis Allen.
His paternal grandparents Frederick and Shirley Allen and maternal grandparents Anthony and Bernice Urban also preceded him in death.
John spent most of his life in New York, where he graduated from Moriah Central School and built a solid base for his career in excavation and construction. He moved to Vermont to be with his partner of 10 years, Shannon. He made a name for himself working for Parker Excavation in Monkton, Vt., making many connections and friends along the way. He then moved on to SD Ireland Brothers, where he was a superintendent of dirt works until his passing.
John’s work ethic and passion for his job were only surpassed by his love for his sons and family. He took many people under his wing over the years, whether it be a new operator who didn’t believe in themselves, a friend who needed a non-judgmental shoulder, or a child who just needed a comfy lap under the apple tree. John made everyone’s life he touched better.
He was a generous man, always willing to lend a hand or beat you to the bill for dinner, sarcastic and funny, stoic yet full of love for those who loved him, and there are many.
John was an avid deer hunter and fisherman, had a passion for dirt bikes, and spent many years in the racing circuit as a mechanic or helping hand for his buddies and their kids. Although a quiet man, he had a sense of humor like no other, his contagious laugh and smile will be sorely missed. He truly enjoyed the peace of sitting under the apple tree, passing the hours by in conversation, or watching his boy ride his dirt bike.
John is survived by his partner of 10 years, Shannon Bennett of Vergennes; sons Nicholas (Autumn) Allen of Mineville, N.Y., and Lucas Bennett of Vergennes; brothers Jason (Lisa) Allen and Tony Allen, both of Allentown, Pa., and Thomas Allen of Granville, N.Y.; nephews Aiden and Ryan Allen; and niece Casey Rodriguez.
His bonus Vermont family loved him as their own, George and Diane Bennett of Monkton, Cheri Bennett of Starksboro, Kirstein Putnam of Vergennes, and his dear friend Ron Gorton of Vergennes. Many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues will cherish his memory as well.
John will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Until we meet again, rest easy Handsome.
A celebration of life will be held at The American Legion Post 14, 37 Monkton Rd., Vergennes, Vt., on Nov. 2, from 1-4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to either St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Camp-Ta-Kum-Ta, Vt. ◊
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