Joe Allen's final ride....farewell, friend!

Cozad Legend: Joseph Allen, age 88 (1921-2009)

     Joseph Allen, 88, of Cozad, Nebraska, died April 27th, 2009, at the Golden LivingCenter in Cozad.

     He was born on April 10th, 1921, and was soon adopted by his parents, Harry B. and Helen (Jennings) Allen. Joe grew up on the family farm, continuing the operation until his health forced his retirement. 

     Joe never had children, but he treated everyone else's like his own. His kindness, like his yellow wagon, was known throughout the state. Joe was instrumental in starting the Nebraska Draft Horse Association. He raised cattle, and farmed, but his love was for his Belgian Horses. Joe had numerous grand champion mares and traveled around the country to shows and sales. He was a Master Mason and member of Thistle Lodge #61 A.F & A.M. Lexington, NE for over 60 years.

     Survivors include his sisters, Carol Russell of Whittier, California, and Martha Coutre of Chesapeake, Virginia; a nephew, David Evans of Buena Park, California; special friends, Richard, Carolyn, Stephanie, and Matthew Armstead of Cozad, and Samuel and Kris Wehse of Cozad, and numerous other friends throughout the country.

     He is preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, David.

     A memorial has been established to the Nebraska Draft Horse Association Youth Fund.

     Online condolences can be made at www.berrymanfuneral home.com.

Updated May 1, 2009

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In 1969, Joe Allen telephoned Maury Telleen and asked him for a list of all the subscribers to the Draft Horse Journal with a Nebraska Address.  Well, Maury sent him the list, Joe invited them, about 100 people showed up (including Maury Telleen) and the rest is history.  The Nebraska Draft Horse and Mule Association (NDHMA) was formed and has been growing strong ever since.

2009 OFFICERS Alan McVay - President Mike Mousel - Vice-President Bonnie Burhoop -        Secretary/Treasurer Traver DeMaranville - Director Bryan Holen - Director Vernon Curtis - Director