Robert Allen of Fenwick Island, formerly of Seaford, passed away on March 17, 2025. He was born on Dec. 17, 1941, in Seaford to Robert (Bobby) and Beatrice (Bea) Allen. Robert graduated as salutatorian from Seaford High School in 1959 and earned a degree in political science from Princeton University in 1963.
Following graduation, Robert served two years in the Navy as a Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG), stationed in Rhode Island and Florida before serving aboard a destroyer at sea. After his military service, he worked for Shell Oil in New York City and Buffalo, NY, before returning to Seaford to join his father at Allen Petroleum Corporation, where he eventually became President.
In 1968, he married Jeanne Wootten, and they welcomed their first daughter, Mary Kathleen, in 1970 and their second daughter, Megan, in 1975.
Always civic-minded, Robert served as president of the Seaford Lions Club and the Seaford Chamber of Commerce. He will be fondly remembered for his hilarious performances at the annual Lions Club Shows and his beautiful singing voice. He also served on the Delaware State School Board and the Delaware Pension Board.
In Seaford, Robert was an active member of Mt. Olivet Church and sang in the choir for several years. A lifelong and avid golfer, he cherished playing at the Seaford Golf and Country Club, where he enjoyed countless chicken salad sandwiches in the clubhouse.
In 2009, he moved to Keen-Wik on the Bay where he continued his passion for golf at Cripple Creek Golf and Country Club. During retirement, he enjoyed reading, watching golf, taking his grandchildren fishing, and walking his beloved dog, Sally.
Robert will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and a wonderful friend. He shared his joy and love of life with everyone he met, especially his wife Jeanne, and truly made this world a better place. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jeanne Allen; his daughter Mary Kate Allen and her children Alexander, Emily, and Maya; his daughter Megan Holzer, her husband Craig, and their children Katie and Will; his sister Bebe Moore, her husband Don, and their children Robin and Donald; and his brother John Allen and his daughter Ily.
A visitation was held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, followed by the funeral service. Interment followed at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 Dupont Boulevard, Georgetown, DE 19947; or to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.