Remembering … Robert Allen

Robert Allen, a former University of Nebraska Regent, longtime member of the UNMC Board of Counselors and an ardent supporter of medical center research, died Tuesday following a short illness. He was 84.

Robert Allen

Allen served on the Board of Regents from 1988 to 2000 and on the UNMC Board of Counselors from 2002 to 2010.

“Bob Allen was a great regent. He truly loved the university and always kept the best interest of the university in mind in everything he did as a regent,” said UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D. “After he finished his term as a regent, I asked Bob to be a member of the UNMC Board of Counselors. He gladly accepted this invitation and was one of our most faithful and dedicated board members.

“Bob was a visionary man and a voracious reader. He did everything he could to stay informed and was never hesitant to express his views. Our deepest sympathies go to Georgene and the Allen family along with our gratitude for sharing this wonderful man with us. He truly made a difference.”

Allen was a strong supporter of UNMC research, particularly in the area of brain diseases.

More information Allen’s survivors include his wife, Georgene, sons Bryant and Erik and daughter Kristin. A memorial service for Allen will be held Saturday at 10:30 am at the First Presbyterian Church in Hastings at 621 N. Lincoln Ave.

“The university and the state have lost a tireless supporter and passionate advocate,” said University of Nebraska President James B. Milliken, J.D. “Bob Allen cared deeply about the academic quality of the University of Nebraska and the opportunities the university offered the state’s young people. He will be missed.”

Allen was a legendary businessman in Hastings, having founded a large department and grocery store that takes nearly an entire block in the central Nebraska city.

He also served as Hastings’ mayor from 1976 to 1980.