Viola Jean Allen

Waunakee/Madison
Viola Jean (Gentile) Allen, 92, passed away on Thurs., Jan. 20, 2011 at the Waunakee Manor Health Care Center. Viola was born on Nov. 5, 1918 to Frank and Teresa (Stella) Gentile in Hurley, WI. There she met and later married her High School sweetheart and best friend, Floyd Allen. After Floyd was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, Viola, Floyd and their family moved to Ironwood, Michigan, then Eagle River, WI and finally settled in Madison where they raised their five children. During that time, Viola was also teaching and substitute teaching on a part time basis as well as attending college to earn her state teaching certificate. She also developed and marketed several games for preschool children including ""I Got It"" alphabet game which was sold in numerous stores in Madison. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who was known for her deep love of family, cheery and positive disposition, creative entrepreneurial endeavors, and incredible love of music and singing. Survivors include her children Frank (Ann) Allen of Waunakee, Elizabeth (Chris) Borreca of Houston, Texas, Rick (Cindy) Allen of Pardeeville and Mary (Scott) Woodward of Madison; twelve grandchildren, Carol, Amy, Molly, Laura, Jon, Ben, Anthony, Jenny, Jessie, Heather, Michelle, and Alesha. She was preceded in death by Floyd, her husband of 59 years; her oldest son, Tom; and daughter-in-law, Sue. A private burial will be held at Roselawn Memorial park. The family requests that memorials be made to the Alzheimer's Association. The family also extends thanks and appreciation for the special care provided by the Waunakee Manor staff.