Charlie Allen
6-16-1930 ~ 4-22-2021
Charles E. Allen, 91, of Rocky Hill, peacefully passed away on April 22, 2021.
He was born in Preston, Kansas to the late Agnes and Clarence Allen. Charlie and Pauline, who predeceased him, raised 7 children and shared 70 years of marriage. Charlie will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and loyal friend. He was motivated by making life better for family and friends whether it was to offer advice or lend a helping hand. Charlie was known for his strong work ethic, integrity and creativity. He looked at challenges as opportunities for growth. He enjoyed sharing his life experiences, offering words of wisdom and spreading kindness.
Charlie was a natural athlete. He enjoyed outdoor activities with his family and friends: ice-skating, waterskiing, sailing, kayaking, running and snowmobiling. He was an avid cyclist and downhill skier into his 80’s. Charlie’s other interests included ballroom dancing and gardening. He enjoyed time with family and friends whether it was vacations, holidays, birthdays, trips to the beach, backyard gatherings or breakfast with his retired police friends.
Charlie was employed by the Hartford Police Dept. for 23 years and retired as a Sergeant. He was Director of the Police Athletic League and established the Officer Friendly Program. Charlie was instrumental in starting programs for the Hartford youth which included boxing, weight lifting and the Fife and Drum Corps. Charlie owned and operated Century Florist & Gift Shop in Rocky Hill where he honed his floral designing skills. He established A. Allen Video Productions and founded the CT Videographers Association.
Later in life, he volunteered as a hospice Santa through the CT Nursing Association. As a Professional Santa, he was a co-founder of the Connecticut Society of Santas. Charlie enjoyed bringing the ‘spirit’ of Santa Claus to children as well as adults. He leaves behind many close videographer and Santa friends.
For the last decade, Charlie lovingly took care of Pauline. When dementia set in, he became her lifeline. He learned to bake and cook so he could make delicious meals for Pauline. He continuously brought her joy by playing his accordion, singing their favorite songs and praying the rosary with her. Charlie devoted his time to making Pauline feel comfortable and loved.
Charlie is survived by his 7 children: Dave (& Anne) Allen, Gary (& Gloria) Allen Sr., Kathleen Allen (& fiancé Norman Turgeon) Paulla (& Stephen) Bogue, Claudia (& Ed) Kefor, Constance (& Paul) Rotondo, Charlie Allen Jr., and grandchildren: Gary (& Kim) Allen Jr., Zachary (& Dzseni) Locke, Ashleigh (& Joe) Vella, Olivia Allen; Stephanie and Caroline Bogue; Camille, Mahlee and Audrey Kefor and great-grandson Garrett Allen; his sister-in-law Millie Failla; his brother-in-laws: Joseph Rafala, Louis (& Phyllis) Rafala Jr. and Regis Cassidy; 3 godchildren, nieces and nephews.
A special thank you to the following medical professionals and their staff for their care, compassion and friendship: Dr. Pawan Karanam, nurse Kimberly and the entire Yale Smilow Cancer Hospital team; Dr. Julian Esteban, Dr. Gary Last, Dr. G. Thomas Trono; Apple Rehab and Beacon Hospice staff.
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the funeral service was held privately. In Charlie’s memory, please consider performing a random act of kindness for someone in need or donating to your favorite charity. Please feel free to share expressions of sympathy, memories and photo tributes at www.broooklawnfuneralhome.com.
Per his request, in Charlie’s memory, please consider performing a random act of kindness for someone in need. Memorial contributions can also be made in Charlie’s memory to: The CT Society of Santas, PO Box 541, Bethlehem, CT 06751.
