Joan Allen

Joan Ellen Allen (VanOoyen) was born on August 29, 1935, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she spent her childhood. On her 90th birthday, August 29, 2025 she entered into her heavenly home to be with the Lord. Joan married the love of her life, Eugene "Gene" Allen on February 16, 1952.

Her greatest joy and accomplishment was raising nine children while giving her time to Girl/Boy Scouts and 4-H. She also sold Avon and Princess House Crystal. Joan and Gene built a loving home for their family in Mukwonago, Wisconsin.

Gene & Joan moved to Arizona in 1977 with their family, the original owners and operators of the Branding Iron Restaurant.  Joan worked in Real Estate and managed rental properties for her son for many years.  After 51 years of marriage, Gene passed away as a result of cancer.  Joan dedicated the rest of her life supporting Relay for Life and volunteering at Cancer Center in Safford.

Joan is survived by her son, Michael Allen (Mimi), daughters Patricia Curtis, Jacquelyn Lindhorst (LaVerne Witt), Diane Hansen (Dave), Laurie Volcheck (Bruce), Jane Franco (Doug Stringer), Christine Fisher (Terry); 24 grandchildren, 54 greatgrandchildren, 13 great-great- grandchildren; and Homer Robilard, her companion of 14 years.  She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gene Allen, daughters Susan Beth and Mary Allen; and brother Dale (Butch) VanOoyen.

Joan was a member of the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.  A Rosary and Mass will be held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church on Monday, September 8, 2025 beginning at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be held at Vernon Center Cemetery located in Mukwonago, Wisconsin at a later date.

She loved being a wife, mother, grandmother and friend to so many.  She was beautiful, strong, intelligent, kind, and loving.  We will forever cherish our memories.  She made us feel special, never missing a birthday or Christmas and celebrating every milestone with thoughtful gifts. We will always remember her with a cup of coffee and the scent of Chanel No. 5.  She taught us the value of working hard, a passion for cooking and the joy of simply having fun.  The beautiful family she built will forever carry on the legacy and foundation she created with compassion and love.  We are deeply blessed to have had her in our lives. You became an angel just like you were on earth.  THE LOVE WE SHARE WILL LIVE FOREVER.