Allen LeRoy DeJong

   Allen LeRoy DeJong, 88, of Ruthven, Iowa passed away surrounded by his loved ones.

   Born and raised in Sioux Center, IA, he got married to his wife, Eunice Rozeboom of Sioux Center, IA on August 15, 1962. Allen grew up on the family farm where he developed a strong work ethic that would define his life. Allen’s hands told the story of hard work and pride in earning an honest living. After years of working various labor jobs, Allen went on to own and operate a trash collection business, serving his community with integrity and dependability. In his later years, he worked as a truck driver until he retired in Ruthven, IA. Allen never shied away from a job that needed doing. Allen had the heart of a child. Whether working hard or spending time with his family, his playful spirit always brought joy and laughter everywhere he went. His sharp wit and kind heart made him beloved across generations.

   Allen is survived by his siblings: Florence Dykstra of Hospers, IA; Odean (Phyllis) DeJong of Hull, IA; Lloyd (Lois) DeJong of Sioux Center, IA; Karen (Myron) Kooima of Inwood, IA; Beverly (Larry) Eckblad of Lakewood, CO; his son, Tim (Laura) DeJong of Omaha, NE; their children: Brianna (Dan) McClure, Brenden (Danielle) DeJong, Brett (Jordan) DeJong; his daughter, Shelley (Jeffrey) Watts of Bellevue, NE; their children: Jeffrey (Fallon) Watts Jr, Jason Watts, Jerome (Jesika) Watts, Jeremiah Hurley, Ja’Quawna (Mike) Dotson, Jacey Watts; his son, Todd (Heather) DeJong; their children: Lance (Katie) DeJong, Dylan DeJong, Carter DeJong and 21 great grandchildren.

  Allen was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Eunice; infant son, Michael; his parents, Simon and Tracy DeJong; his brother, Stanley DeJong; brother, Dallas DeJong and brother-in-law, Dick Dykstra.

   Allen was a member of CrossWinds Church. He will be remembered for his quiet wisdom, strong values and the deep pride he took in his family. His legacy will live on in the generations that follow.

*In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to CrossWinds church in Spencer.