Belvidere, IllinoisBernard Franklin "Bink" Allen, 89, of Belvidere, died peacefully February 10, 2009 at home surrounded by his loving family. Born July 25, 1919 in Belvidere, IL the son of Fred L. and Sadie R. (Delavergne) Allen. He lived his entire life in Belvidere. Bernie graduated from Belvidere High School, Class of 1937. He married Mildred Elnora Nelson on May 1, 1943 in Belvidere. Bernie served his country in the US Army during World War II, stationed primarily in England. He was employed by Parsons Casket Hardware Co., National Sewing Machine, Sundstrand Co. and Barber Colman Co. retiring in 1982. Bernie was a member of the First United Methodist Church, SAR, Masonic Lodge No. 60, American Legion Boone Post 77 and the Boone County Historical Museum. One of his greatest enjoyments was his music. He arranged music and passionately played his trumpet in many local dance bands and he loved the big band sound.Survivors include his wife, Mildred; daughters, Barbara Jean Allen of Denver, CO, Carol Ann (Kenneth) Zarzynski of Buffalo Grove, IL; grandsons, Daniel Allen Zarzynski and David Robert Zarzynski; sister and brother in-law, Marjorie and Ronald Campbell; sister in-law Rose Nelson and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, and infant sister, Vivian Mary; five half-sisters, Frances, Gertrude, Estella, Maude and Mabel and a half nephew, Russell Neufer who grew up with him.The family acknowledges his caregivers, Tawny Blatchford, Sue Gomez and Karen Sepeda, OSF Hospice nurses, Julie, Marilyn and Michelle; and special friends Marilyn and Arlyn Groen. Your loving care and kindness will always be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given in care of the family.