OSWEGO, NY – Willard “Will” A. Allen, 92, passed away on Tuesday June 30, 2015, in Rochester, NY, surrounded by his loving family.
The son of Elmer and Mabel (Hungerford) Allen, Will grew up in Oneonta, NY.
Born on February 20, 1923, he received his Bachelor’s Degree from Oswego State Teachers College, his master’s degree from Penn State and his doctorate from Indiana University.
Will’s love of teaching was evident throughout his life.
After graduating from Oneonta High School and completing two years of college, Will served as a twin engine pilot instructor in World War II (2nd lieutenant, Army Air Corps).
Upon his return from service and earning his undergraduate degree, he began his teaching career in 1947 at Beaver River High School in Beaver Falls, NY.
He began his career in higher education at Ball State University in 1951.
In 1953, he returned to SUNY Oswego where he taught Industrial Arts from 1953 until his retirement in 1985, serving as department chairman from 1971-1973.
He was well-known within national industrial education circles both as an educator and the author of “Know Your Car.”
In his personal life, Will was not only a teacher, but a problem solver, planner and builder as well.
He taught three generations of Allens how to fish, water ski, and camp.
In his spare time, Will could always be found doing repairs or working on projects: some of which included building the family home and family camp.
His planning sheets that included “A to A” and “B to B” directions are legendary and his guiding principle, “Measure twice, cut once,” taught all of his students and family the importance of planning and a strong work ethic.
He leaves his beloved wife of 73 years, Lois (Hartwell) Allen; and three sons: Steven A. Allen (Claudia) of Cincinnati, Ohio, Robert Allen (Gail) of Leominster, Massachusetts and Richard Allen (Debra) of Webster, NY.
He leaves five grandchildren: Carolyn (Allen) Scheper, Scott Allen, Melissa (Allen) Celli, Shane Allen and Brenton Allen; four step-grandchildren, Josh, Jon, Desi and Jeromy Tesoriero; and five great-grandchildren, Oliver, Henry and Will Celli, and Sadie and Gianna Tesoriero.
He was predeceased by his sister, Louise Beaudon; and grandson, Christopher Allen.
One of Will’s favorite sayings was that any project has five steps. Step five was to stand back and admire your work. Will has now reached step five and can stand back and admire his fine work.
Services and burial were held privately at the Oswego Town Rural Cemetery.
Nelson Funeral Home had care of arrangements.
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