Thomas Lawrence Allen
August 25,1937-March 24, 2025
Thomas “Tom” Lawrence Allen, age 87, of Erie, died peacefully on March 24, 2025. Born in Erie, PA in 1937, he was preceded in death by all but one of his eight siblings and his wife of more
than 60 years, Mary “Mickey” Allen, with whom he shared thousands of miles, a deep
faith in God, countless card games, endless love, and a commitment to youth sports
and family that defined his time on earth.
Tom is survived by his sister, Patricia Erdman, and children, Judy Nichols (Ted), Tim Allen (Teri), Jill Howell (David), Amy Troncone (Jerry) all of Erie, PA and Julie Parker (Michael) of Montverde, FL. Grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Sean, David, Stephen, Amanda, Nathan, Daniel, Emily, Megan, Jackson, Laven and KJ; and great grandchildren Cameron, Rylie, Weston, Xander, Maverick, and Liliana. Grandpa Tom held a special relationship with his grandson Stephen, whom he spoke to hourly either by phone or in person.
One of nine children born to Herbert and Beatrice Allen of Harborcreek Township, Tom
grew up in a full house playing sports and participating in shenanigans with his brothers.
His sense of humor and quiet chuckle were born in that happy home. Tom graduated
from Harbor Creek High School in 1956 where he was the president of the student
council, a four-sport athlete earning 10 varsity letters and breaking many school
records, to build his own happy home with his wife, whom he married in 1958. Tom and
Mickey (Meade) met in elementary school. Tom was a lifetime member of Wesleyville Baptist Church, Gideon, and a Free Mason.
He attended the General Electric apprentice school and was at the top of his class
becoming a foreman, but later switched occupations working at Prudential Insurance as
a salesman for over 25 years. He opened an Allstate Insurance Agency with his son
where he won the prestigious Honor Ring award and knew all his insured, helping them
plan for and protect their families.
Tom Allen had a contagious laugh – he could recycle a joke or a birthday card, with
all the enthusiasm each required. His happy and gentle nature was reflected in his
lifelong commitment to traveling with his family. Tom and his wife, whom he lovingly
called “Mick”, traveled by camper to all 50 states with their five children. Always ready to
“get on the road again,” he instilled a love of travel in his kids and never missed an
adventure, travelling alongside his children and grandchildren on multi-generational
excursions right up until the past few months.
Tom also loved coaching from church league and his kid’s teams to travel softball
alongside his wife Mickey. Ever a pair prior to her death, Tom and Mickey faithfully
attended sporting events. In his family, Grandpa Tom played the role of biggest fan,
chauffer, babysitter, financial planner, tax preparer, and happy companion.
Time was his greatest gift to those who knew him. Playing card games every Sunday
around a crowded table with kids on laps and endless laughs, Grandpa Tom was a
fierce competitor and regular comedian as he kept his family playing 500 long past
when most would have dispersed for their respective homes. He lived with each of his
children during the later years of his life, traveling between homes and warming each
room upon arrival, with his sharp wit and good humor – and boundless appetite for
adventure. In the end, his daughter Amy patiently cared for him and happily enjoyed his
company. Known as Dad, Grandpa, Camping Buddy, Tomo and friend, he will live in the
hearts of his family forever.
Funeral Service will be private with immediate family, and Celebration of Life will be held
at a later date.