George Allen

George Allen, 81, of Buckner, Mo., formerly of King Hill, died Aug. 19, 2008.

He was born in American Falls, Idaho, on Aug. 5, 1927, to William and Loretta Allen.

He grew up in King Hill and spent several years of his young adult life participating in rodeo with his younger brother, BudAllen. Together they build a rodeo arena that still exists.

George was a talented singer and songwriter, his family said, noting that he wrote inspirational hymns and songs about Idaho and the cowboy life.

"He and his brothers, Frank, Joe, Jack, Dick and Bud loved to sit around a campfire and exchange stories about their childhood -- mostly mischief if Dick was involved," his family said.

George's later years were spent in Missouri where he and his wife, Barb, were involved in Indian Ministries.

He is survived by: his wife, Barbara; a daughter, Loretta (Larry); sons Lonnie (Carmen) and Rob (Danette), stepsons Dan (Michelle), Shaun (Lori), Cody (Alicia); a foster daughter, Jill (Todd); 19 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his brother, Bud Allen (Betty), and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by six sisters, four brothers and a daughter, Debbie.