Michael Allen — President

Michael Allen began working side-by-side with Grandfather "Bill" Allen - the Founder of Allen Mortuary - over a decade ago. He learned first-hand what it takes to make a family-owned business successful. With training very much rooted in his grandfather's traditions, Michael's approach to caring for families, and his personal leadership style, continue the Allen Family traditions today and into the future. Through his accomplishments and management of Allen Mortuary, Michael has earned an impressive reputation as a kindhearted executive. A compassionate businessman with a family-centered philosophy, Michael is committed to serving the community just as his grandfather did for more than five decades. Michael is a certified Funeral Counselor.

Alison Allen — Vice President

Alison is Michael's wife and first joined the Allen family in 2003 when they married, and now works as part of the Allen Mortuary family. She helps in all areas of the business working on an administrative level and also assisting families during their difficult time. She graduated with a Bachelors Degree from California State University, Stanislaus and is a licensed Funeral Director.

Jack Kirchert — Manager

Jack Kirchert has delivered quality care at Allen Mortuary for over 16 years. His long history with the Allen family, coupled with his dedication to upholding the family's values, is a benefit to those he serves. With Jack's professionalism and experience, having served thousands of families, he knows the perfect time to lend a shoulder or share his always-appropriate sense of humor. He holds his Associate of Arts degree in Mortuary Science from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science and is a licensed Funeral Director, Embalmer and Crematory Manager.

Ken Freeby — Arrangement Counselor

Ken started with us as a part-time, on-call driver, but soon naturally assumed his current role as a full-time Arrangement Counselor. With a lifetime of experiences in the community that include pastoral work, small business ownership and financial planning, Ken is a valuable addition to Allen Mortuary. His patience, compassion and calming presence make him well-suited to his profession. Ken graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Bible & Theology from Crown College (Minnesota).

Nicole Huffman — Arrangement Counselor

As an Arrangement Counselor, Nicole is always ready to help families make funeral arrangements during difficult times. Her kind spirit creates a warm environment where every family is treated like her own. With a gentle hand she can guide you through the arrangement process. She holds a Law Review Certificate from the California Funeral Director Association.

Veronica Munoz — Receptionist/ Bi-lingual Arrangement Counselor

Veronica is our front-desk receptionist who initially came to us a part-time "temp". She quickly proved herself invaluable, and was hired permanently in 2009. Her gentle and soothing demeanor is a blessing to families who walk in our door. Veronica is fluent in English and Spanish.  She holds a Law Review Certificate from the California Funeral Director Association.

Joanne Reese — Arrangement Assistant

Joanne has years of experience working with hurting families, through ministry and employment. As a result, she understands the unique faces of grief. As a freelance writer, Joanne gives careful attention to detail and has a deep appreciation for other people's stories. Her love for people and peaceful countenance bring warmth to our office.

Michaela Marr — Apprentice Embalmer

Following in her father Greg Marr's footsteps, Michaela has decided to pursue a career in the funeral services industry. She recently graduated from American River College, receiving her A.S. in Funeral Services Education. She expects to earn her Funeral Director's License in 2012. As our new Apprentice, Michaela strives to learn all aspects of our organization. With a friendly smile she completes each task with excellence and grace.

Glen Thomas — Cremationist and Maintenance

Glen came to us desiring to care for people in a professional capacity. He had demonstrated his sincerity with years of volunteer work with both the aging and the youth. A published freelance writer, Glen also has years of previous experience in education, and in retail as a problem-solver and in-store instructor. He has an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology and Early Childhood Education, supplemented with coursework in counseling.

Rachel Sarkis — Floral Designer

Coming to Allen Flower Shop with ten years of floral experience, Rachel has combined her love of flowers with her artistic sensibilities, specializing in weddings and artistic designs. She received intensive training in floral and interior design working alongside her aunt, former owner of The Flower Shop. Rachel loves to create innovative floral arrangements for all occasions. Rachel holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Marketing and Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Vanessa Mora — Floral Assistant

A "quick study" in floral designing, Vanessa assists Allen Flower Shop with floral arrangements, phone orders, deliveries and office duties. She enjoys the opportunity to demonstrate her creativity while helping customers.

Laurie Walters — Systems Analyst

As a member of the Allen family and with extensive experience in her field, Laurie is a true asset to Allen Mortuary. She works behind the scenes in accounting, payroll, software and systems support. Her smile and friendly personality are always a welcome sight in the office. Laurie graduated from California State University, Sacramento and Drexel University and holds an M.S. Degree in Business Information Systems.

Lanita Moen — Consultant/Retired

As a member of the Allen family, Lanita (Allen) Moen has been a part of Allen Mortuary nearly all her life. She officially joined the team as an Arrangement Counselor at the request of her uncle, the late "Bill" Allen. She is now "officially" retired, but continues to serve as a Consultant to Allen Mortuary and lends a hand whenever needed. Lanita is dedicated to continuing the Allen family legacy established over 50 years ago. Her gentleness and caring spirit, coupled with her natural eye for details and quick wit, have proven to be invaluable tools throughout her career at Allen Mortuary. Lanita attended both Pasadena College and Fresno State University and is a licensed Funeral Director.

James 'Stan' Gustafson, Dennis Macedo, James Gehrke — On-Call

Allen Mortuary relies immensely on the 24-hour on-call help and expertise of our permanent, part-time drivers and service directors. Stan, Dennis and James have been representing Allen Mortuary in this special way for years, and we couldn't do it without them.

Teamwork

It takes numerous team members to complete every important aspect of your loved one's arrangements. While you may not often see the entire team, they are steadfastly working behind the scenes to fulfill your family's needs.