Robert Santee Allen, Sr.

Robert Santee allen, SR. Robert Santee Allen, Sr. was born on September 10, 1926, in Homestead, Pennsylvania to Ashton and Mattie (Butterworth) Allen. The ninth of ten children, Robert grew up with a love of family and strong family values. He attended the Connelly Technical Trade School becoming skilled in carpentry and masonry. In 1944, he joined the U.S. Army and served in the Pacific theater. He returned to Pittsburgh in 1946, and in 1947, he married Corrine Davis and their union produced five children. In 1957, he purchased a house plan, and with the help of his brother Warren and a few skilled friends, he built a home for his family in New Homestead. Robert provided for his family by working at Bethlehem Steel, he started off as a 'Heater Boy' and rose to become the first Black Foreman in the company. As the steel industry in Pittsburgh was declining, he turned down offers in other cities in steel to start his own successful contracting business. His commitment to family was matched by his commitment to the community. From the age of 22, he voted in every election. As a young man and veteran, he volunteered for clothing drives for coal miners. When he moved his family to Chartiers City, he became a Democratic Committeeman, a seat which he held for 15 years. When his eldest daughter, Cheryl Allen, ran for judge, he was on the campaign trail with her. He was very well read, and was known for his extensive knowledge of geography, population statistics, and family birthdays. For years he studied U.S. History and the Civil Rights movement. He was well qualified to discuss with anyone at any level the nuances of social, political, and economic issues in America. He walked the Pettus Bridge, attended the Million Man March and visited sites of historic events all over the country. He brought these experiences back home to share with others at the senior center, the VFW and even events in his home. Robert lived a full and vital life. He enjoyed people and music. It was easy to get him to sing any of his favorites, including 'My Way' and 'Ain't nobody here but us chickens.' He ran the race well and was active up to very end. On June 9th, after 95 plus years of a well lived life, God called Robert home. Robert now joins his wife, Corrine, his third daughter, Bernadine, and his grandson, Malik on the other side of the veil. Remaining on this side are his children, Cheryl Allen (James Skipwith), Claudia Allen, Robert S. Allen Jr., and Denise Allen; his grandchildren Ronald 'Roger' Bennett, Jr., Erin Allen, and Freddy Craig; and great grandchildren Christopher Beckley, Tyrone Turner and Sean Craig. He will be deeply missed by a host of nieces, nephews, other family member and friends. Viewing will be held on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 from 2-8pm at the White Lily Baptist Church, 3621 Chartiers Ave. Pgh., PA 15204 where a service will take place on Thursday at 11am. Interment will follow in Homewood Cemetery. Professional Services trusted to D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY LTD., LAWRENCEVILLE. www.dalessandroltd.com.

Robert Santee Allen, Sr.

September 10, 1926 - June 9, 2022