Allen R. Dodge

Allen R. Dodge Allen R. Dodge, lifelong resident of Salina, Kansas passed away on Thursday, March 22, 2012 in Salina, Kansas. Allen was born on August 8, 1916 in Salina, Kansas the son of C.B. and Caroline Marie (Rickenbacher) Dodge. He was raised and attended school in Salina, graduating with the class of 1934. Allen was an exceptional high school basketball player with a forte for defense. His young adventurous spirit guided him in, through, and out of, several memorable experiences including a month long trip to the 1932 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, California with three friends and twenty dollars in hand. Again, with friends at his side, Allen co-founded the 'Utopians' Saturday night club. Often attending with his white pants and shirt in Frank Barbee's basement, Allen, danced into loving marriage with Barbara Simpson which began on January 15, 1938. During their courtship, Allen attended the University of Kansas where he belonged to the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. His education also extended into his attendance at the Washburn University School of Law. Allen was called to serve his country, honorably answering that call, with his service in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was honorable discharged October 10, 1945 and returned home to his family. With his ever-present ethics, compassion and integrity, Allen worked his way into a 40 year career as the president of the Homestead Savings and Loan. He extended loans on a handshake and more importantly gave families in financial need, hope through his generosity. He was also the owner of the Dodge Agency Realtors, and worked in compliment to several agencies including Dodge, King and Groves. In 1966, Barbara preceded him in death. He was later graced with the company of Jerenne Osborne Mellinger, which led to their marriage on August 13, 1967. He cherished their companionship and friendship that drew to a close with her passing in 1979. Allen retired in 1978 and indulged in his love of fishing, golf and most importantly, family. He said very little, but his actions spoke volumes about his dedication and passion to improve the community. He served on numerous community organizations as a board member of the; Salina Recreation Commission, Marymount College Board of Trustees, Salina County Club, St. John's Military Academy, Salina Airport Authority, past president of the Kansas Saving and Loan League Allen was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church, American Legion, Isis Shrine and Elk Lodge. Allen led by example, and was a role model for outstanding virtue, character, and humility. With his wonderful sense of humor, Allen brought laughter and love to countless lives. His presence will be forever held closely in the heart of those who knew him. Allen was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, C.B. Dodge Jr., an infant brother; a daughter, Judith Beth Platts; and a grandson, Marc Allen McCabe. He is survived by; his sister, Mary Beth Engleman, Salina, Kansas; two daughters, Joanne Robinson, Scottsdale, Arizona, Susan Csikas, Denver, Colorado; son, Clifton Dodge Sr., Salina, Kansas; stepson, Richard Mellinger, Overland Park, Kansas; stepdaughter, Gwyneth Mellinger Auchard, Lawrence, Kansas; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren. A funeral service for Mr. Allen R. Dodge was held on Monday, March 25, 2012 at the First Presbyterian Church and was followed by the interment at Roselawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Allen R. Dodge Fund at the Salina Community Foundation, 113 N. 7th, Ste. 201, Salina, Kansas, 67401.