Allen VanDorn

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Ottis Allen VanDorn, age 99 of Neosho, entered into rest on Sept. 14, 2019 at his home, following a short illness.

Allen was born September 6, 1920 in Newton County, Missouri, one of nine children born to Ralph Allen and Goldie (Gilstrap) VanDorn. Allen served his country during WW II in the US Army Force, 1941-1945 earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. He returned to his hometown and worked in the maintenance department of Big Smith, working his way to Plant Superintendent. Allen enjoyed woodworking and reading. 

At the age of 61 he lost his ability to see but that never deterred him from continuing to do the things he enjoyed and living life to the fullest. He was a member of the High Street Christian Church and the Racine Christian Church. 

 Allen and Hazel Nadine (Murray) were married on March 12, 1946 in Columbus, Kansas and shared 63 years together before her death on April 11, 2009. 

Allen is survived by two daughters, Nancy Chesnut and husband Mike of Neosho and Linda Montgomery and husband, Gary of Tecumseh, Kansas; three grandchildren, Charity Solomon and husband, Mark, Chad Chesnut and wife, Kim and Gant Welborn and wife, Michelle; eight great grandchildren, Payton Welborn, Gage Welborn, Jonah Soloman, Journey Solomon, Jude Solomon, Jewel Solomon, Sarah Chesnut and Cauy Chesnut; two brothers, Chester VanDorn and wife, Joyce, Richard VanDorn and wife Janice; one sister, Marie Whitehead and husband, Clifford; two sisters in law, Jill VanDorn and Betty VanDorn and numerous nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his wife and parents, he is preceded in death by four brothers, Dean, Rex, Joe and Phillip VanDorn and one sister, Violet Myers. 

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 20, 2019 at 10 am at the Racine Christian Church with a memorial service and celebration of life to follow at 11 am, Pastor Kirk Roelfsema will officiate. 

Following the memorial service, military honors and interment will be in the Burkhart Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Allen may be made to the High Street Christian Church or the Racine Christian Church Building Fund, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.