Black Allen
On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 11:10 a.m., Allen E. Black, 72, of rural Akron, passed away at home.
The late Gene and Margaret (Hodges) Black welcomed Allen into the world on December 31, 1952, in Oceanside, California. He graduated from Akron High School in 1971. After that, he continued his studies at Indianapolis’ Lincoln Tech. He married Janet K. Burns, who is still alive, on May 12, 1973, at Walnut Church of the Brethren of Argos.
Allen worked for Pierceton Trucking Co. in Laketon for 26 years, starting as a diesel mechanic and working his way up to shop foreman. He proudly joined the Teamsters union while he was there. After that, he worked as a road tech at Kerlin Bus Sales for more than 20 years, conducting warranty work until his retirement in 2021.
Allen had a strong interest in trains and was involved with the Central Indiana Yard Masters, the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum in North Judson, the National Model Railroad Association, and the Erie Lackawanna Railroad Historical Society. He particularly enjoyed rail-fanning on vacations and enjoyed touring train museums.
He also had a strong admiration for guns and the shooting community’s friendship. Allen traveled far and wide to compete in shooting contests as a devoted member of the NRA and the Single Action Shooting Society.
Allen was a big kid at heart who joyfully enjoyed life. “Growing old is inevitable, but growing up is optional, and I choose not to use that option,” was one of his favorite quotes. He loved spending time with his family and was well-known for his easy connection with others, warmth, and friendliness. Any room might be filled with his contagious, boisterous laugh.
Son Ryan and wife Angie Black of Akron; granddaughters Isaac, Nathan, Austin, Cody, and Conner; great-grandson Roman; sisters Amy Black of Akron and Arissa and husband Dan Jake Grossman of Akron; brother Henry Hank and wife Sue Black of Warsaw; and wife Janet Black of Akron are among his surviving family members.
Allen’s parents, brother Amber Black and sister Althea Black, passed away before him.
Pastor Teri White will preside over the funeral ceremony, which will take place at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, on Tuesday, June 24 at 10:30 a.m.
After the service, the burial will take place in Akron’s Nichols Cemetery.
Hartzler Funeral Home in Akron will be open for visits Monday, June 23 from 4 to 7 p.m.
In his honor, donations can be made to Beaver Dam Community Church and made payable to Gentiva Hospice or Wheels on Fire.
Send condolences online or share a memory at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
