Steward

Allen Dale Gittleson, 87, passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at his home in Steward. Allen was born February 5, 1932 in Rochelle to Elmer and Alice "Doll" (Luxton) Gittleson. Allen married Doris Purvis on October 16, 1954 in Steward.

After graduating from Steward High School, Allen worked on the farm with his dad. He was called to serve in the US Army from 1952-1954 in the Korean War. He was a sergeant in the Medical Corps, earning the Silver Star and also earning the nickname "Doc Allen." After his military service, he returned home to work on the farm. Allen farmed for over 60 years, first with his father, then on his own with his wife Doris by his side, then with his son Albert. You would only see Allen driving the red International farm equipment. Allen would always be there to lend a helping hand to a farmer in need. It didn't matter if it was a neighbor or his own uncle and cousins, he would help them out. He found the most joy down on the farm.

Allen is survived by his wife of 64 years, Doris Gittleson of Steward; two sons: David (Joyce) Gittleson of Rochelle and Albert (Michele) Gittleson of Rochelle; one daughter, Lois Gittleson of Rochelle; one daughter-in-law, Diane Gittleson of DeKalb; three sisters: Mary Ellen (Lee) Hutson of McFarland, WI, Elsie (Ron) Macklin of Rochelle, and Annie (Bob) Hutcheson of Malta; twelve grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren with number twelve on the way; and his "favorite," Terry Macklin.

Allen is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Alice Gittleson; one son, Bob Gittleson; and many cherished family and friends.

Visitation will be from 4-7 P.M. on Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St. in Rochelle.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, June 5, 2019 at the funeral home with Pastor Megan Thompson officiating. Interment will follow in Trinity Memory Gardens in Rochelle with military honors provided by the Eastern Lee-Ogle Honor Guard. Please visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.