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THE ALEXANDER ALBERT ALLEN FAMILY
Theodosia "Theo" Marie COIE was born at Tingley in December of 1877, the first-born child of John and Elizabeth (McCLATCHEY) COIE.
Theo attended Cozy Corner School throughout her primary years, although in those times school was not held with the regularity
of the present day. She graduated from Tingley High School in 1896 in the fourth graduating class. Theo continued her
education at Cedar Falls, choosing a career as a teacher. On August 12th of 1908, Theo married Alexander Albert ALLEN
at Tingley. The ALLENS started housekeeping on the farm where Theo had been born. Albert and John COIE farmed together
until John's death in 1916. Then Albert managed the farm until his death in 1954. Little is known about Albert's early
life. He did graduated from Tarkio College with a degree in history. He was truly a Christian educator and exerted his influence
toward Christian morals in the Tingley community. When it was proposed to establish a tavern in Tingley, Albert led the way
to prevent this from happening. Theo was an artist. She loved the beauty she found around her and nurtured beautiful flowers
which she use to decorate her home and arranged bouquets for the church. She created many paintings and drawing which are
still cherished by her relatives and friends. Theo and Albert were dedicated members of Tingley's United Presbyterian
Church. Theo taught primary Sunday School class. Albert served as the Sunday School superintendent and taught classes for many
years. He was also an elder of the church.
Warren ALLEN was born on February 7, 1919. He attended school in Tingley and
graduated from Tingley High School with the class of 1936. After graduating from Tarkio College, Warren entered the U.S.
Army. He was a T/5 in the 112th Engineering Division of the 1st Army. Warren was killed in action on D-Day, June 6, 1944.
Suffering from cancer, Theo knew that her son was missing in action. The word of Warren's death came after Theo had died.
Warren was interred in the American Cemetery at St. Laurent, France. Albert was a letter writer, corresponding with
quite a few people. He always remembered special days by sending cards and letters to his family and friends. Albert
remained on the farm with Mae COIE MILLEN coming to help take care of him until his death in July of 1954.
Theo and Albert were interred in Tingley Cemetery.
Warren's memorial stone, Tingley Cemetery.
Gravestone Photographs by dukemiester
SOURCE: Tingley Centennial book, page 240
Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, May of 2010
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