Robert E. Allen, Sr.

In Loving Memory of Robert Edward Allen Robert Edward Allen, 76, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away on January 24, 2026. Born in McAllen, Texas, on August 17, 1949, to Fred Allen, Jr. and Doris Elisabeth Dee-Allen, Robert was a man whose actions spoke volumes. He was a dedicated and respected leader, known for his patience, fairness, and compassion. Robert received his education in Tulsa Schools where he graduated from Will Rogers High School with the class of 1968. Robert honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from September 24, 1968, to June 30, 1991, retiring as a Tech Sergeant. His distinguished military career as an Aviation Crew Chief, Safety Technician, and Aviation Maintenance Chief took him across the globe, including two tours in the Vietnam War, the Philippines, Japan, England, Germany, Norway, Russia, and Iceland. His exemplary service was recognized with numerous decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Distinguished Presidential Unit Citation, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with palm. After his military retirement, he transitioned into management positions across various industries where he was known for improving morale, production, and profits. A man who found great satisfaction in repairing things, from his children's toys to multimillion-dollar aircraft, he brought persistence and passion to every task. He also volunteered for several years with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), where he served as a Commander. His personal hobbies included music, tinkering with electronics, the great outdoors, and golfing with friends. Robert was a patient and loving family man. He was man of few words, but he taught those around him through his actions, by his unwavering work ethic, and how he treated others with patience and kindness. Robert is preceded in death by his father, Fred Allen, Jr.; his mother, Doris Elisabeth Dee-Allen; and his eldest daughter, Suzanne Allen-Greenleaf. He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Katherine Norene DeFazio-Allen; his children, Robert Edward Allen, Jr. and Barbara Allen-Parnell; his stepdaughters, Sara Hembree-Smith and Nora Hembree-Hall; his brother, Fred Allen, III; and his sister, Wilma Allen-Conard. He also leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren: Lindsay Salisbury-Mitchem, Robert Aaron Allen, Taylar McDaniel, Aidan Isaiah Allen, Nik Natale, Joe Natale, Tyler Potts, Mathew Salisbury, and Lainie Moreland; his great-grandchildren: Whitlee Tennison, Payton Tennison, Raiden McDaniel, Karsyn McDaniel, Jay Chadwell, Josiah Hall, and Lainey Salisbury; and his great-great-grandchildren: Jaylyn Chadwell and Rowdy Chadwell; as well as several cousins, nieces, and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in Robert's name. Robert’s celebration of life will be 1PM, Friday, February 20, 2026, at Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Gibson with Pastor Tim Allen officiating and Robert’s son, Robert, Jr., eulogizing. Committal prayers and inurnment will immediately follow at Fort Gibson National Cemetery with full military honors delivered by Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard. The family of Robert Edward Allen has entrusted his care, cremation, and service to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

Robert E. Allen, Sr.

August 17, 1949 - January 24, 2026