Merle W. Allen, 81 of Joplin, Missouri passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, he had been in failing health the past 3 months.
Merle was born Jan. 9, 1945, in Sherman City, Kansas, son of the late Cleo E. and Bertha Mae Walker-Allen. He grew up in the rural areas of Sherman City and McCune, KS, and graduated high school in 1962. He then attended Pittsburg State University (PSU) receiving a Bachelor’s Degree, graduating in 1968, and then earned his Master’s Degree from Kansas State University. During his college years in Pittsburg, he worked as an announcer at KSEK radio, and then as a news editor/anchor at KOAM-TV. In 1969 Merle and his wife, (Vicky) moved to Wichita, Kansas, where Merle worked for The Institute of Logopedics as Director of Public Relations for 1 year, then 10 years at St. Francis Hospital, and 7 more years in the same position at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, Illinois. In the late 1980’s he and his wife relocated again, returning to their home areas by accepting the position of CEO of St. John’s Mercy Health Foundation of Joplin, which he held until his retirement in 2007. Merle received the PSU Alumni Meritorious Award in 2004.
Merle married Vicky Sue Buck of Cherokee, Kansas on May 24, 1968, and she survives at Wildwood Senior Living in Joplin, where he enjoyed his time before passing. Other survivors include a son, Jeffery Tod and Wife, (Rhian) and their daughters, (Emma and Abigail) all of Chandler, Arizona, a daughter Kerri Sue of Joplin, brothers Cleo C. Allen of Topeka, Kansas and Glenn D. Allen and wife, (Erla) also of Joplin, as well as a niece and several nephews. Merle was preceded in death by a son, (Bradly Wayne). Merle and Vicky enjoyed their leisure time by boating on Table Rock Lake with family and friends.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary of Joplin, and no services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to either St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, or The Mercy Health Foundation, both of Joplin.
