Allen Lee Gilbert passed away on June 23, 2023, in Prairie City. A visitation for Allen will be held at the Prairie City First Reformed Church on Thursday, June 29, 2023, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at the church the following day, Friday, June 30, 2023, at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will be held at the church following the service, and all are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the Jasper County Vietnam Veterans, Monroe American Legion, and the Prairie City First Reformed Church. Online condolences may be left at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com.
Allen was born June 22, 1951, in Des Moines to Marvin and Mildred (Pulver) Gilbert. Allen was a 1969 graduate of Prairie City High School. Allen then enlisted in the army and served his country in the Vietnam War. After returning home, Allen married Sharon (Jabaai) Van Ryswyk on May 10, 1977. Allen worked for Caldwell’s Elevator, construction for P.C Builders and maintenance for Vermeer, which he retired from in 2016.
In his spare time, Allen enjoyed a variety of different things. First and foremost, he was a member of the First Reformed Church in Prairie City and served as an elder and deacon. He enjoyed bible studies and attending Cowboy Church. Allen also was fond of the outdoors and made many memories with friends and families during various hunting seasons. Allen was always very proud to walk in parades representing the Jasper County Vietnam Veterans. Walking in parades wasn’t where his participation ended, Allen was known to build Tulip Time parade floats for Vermeer as well. Allen made many memories over the years doing all sorts of things with friends and family, and he will be missed.
Those left to honor Allen’s memory include his wife, Sharon, of 46 years, son Craig (Brenda) Van Ryswyk of Baxter, and daughters Brenda (Marc) Smith of Newton, Amanda (Brian) Van Ekeren of Prairie City and Dana Warrick of West Des Moines, grandchildren, Kylie (Jase) Mixer, Bryce Van Ryswyk, Kaylin Van Ryswyk, Jacob Smith, Jenna Smith, Christian Van Ekeren, Michael Van Ekeren, Aden Van Ekeren, Alex Van Ekeren, Elijah Van Ekeren, three great grandchildren, his mother, Mildred Gilbert, and siblings Malinda Shafman, Mike Gilbert, Marcella Prosch and Bruce Gilbert.
Allen was preceded in death by his father and twin infant sons.