John David Allen, Jr. of Wood Heights, MO passed away peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, at Liberty Hospital.  He was 83 years young, but even with his larger-than-life personality, zest for life and amazing sense of humor, he unfortunately struggled with various medical conditions which eventually became too much for him to fight.

John was born on Feb. 3, 1938, to John David Allen Sr. and Helen Marie Allen of Richmond, MO.  He graduated from Excelsior Springs High School in 1956 where he excelled in football. After graduation, John proudly joined the U.S. Marine Corps and was stationed at Naval Air Station in Alameda, CA where he served as Military Police. He served for three years and received honorable discharge on Oct. 14, 1959.

He was married to his wife Bonnie J. Allen, who proceeded him in death this past year for 35 years. Shortly after they were married in 1986, they settled in Wood Heights, MO where they were both active in the city government. He proudly served as Mayor of Wood Heights for over 16 years and achieved many things for the city, such as a putting in a Dollar General Store, upgrading the water system and storm warning devices.  

He and his wife Bonnie had many friends. They would often take trips across country in their RV to visit family and friends. They enjoyed going out to dinner, attending country music shows, gardening, and spending time with their children and grandchildren who were their pride and joy. They also had a very warm spot in their heart for animals. Over the years, they took in many stray cats and dogs, gave them a warm loving home and spoiled them rotten.

John loved country music and playing the guitar. He must have picked up his first guitar at 10 years old. He and a few of his buddies formed a band when they were 16 and would play at local venues and eventually local opry shows. He continued to play music the remainder of his life.  

John was a man of God. He had a strong faith and church was an important part of his life. Having a desire to serve and help others, he formed Shoe-Fly Missions where he organized many mission trips to Mexico, aiding and helping people in need. This gave him and Bonnie a sense of purpose and joy in their lives knowing they were helping others.

John was a member of the Teamsters Union for many years. He worked for Allied Systems Auto Convoy where he retired in 1991. This gave him more time to perform his Mayoral duties and keep his mission work going.

John was a quite the storyteller. He was never without a good joke. He would set you up with a straight face, let it sink in and then deliver a punchline that would always catch you off guard. He will always be remembered for his quick wit, infectious laugh and kind heart. He will be missed by so many.

John is survived by his children, Bob Post, Stephen Post, Jeff Allen (Michelle), Julie Allen, and Jodi Jensen; stepchildren, Jeff McCoy (Robin), Tracy Riley (Jeff), and Gary McCoy; grandchildren, Joseph Allen, Aden Allen, Jamie Wright, Maddie Wilson, Lyndsey Ruiz, Kendra Adams, Gary Lee McCoy, Daniel Riley and Olivia McCoy; and many other grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A small family viewing was held Friday, Jan. 14, 2022 at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs, MO.  A graveside service followed at South Point Cemetery in Orrick, MO and began at 1 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to The American Diabetes Association or KC Pet Project in his name.

Arrangements are in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs, MO.