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Mike Allen an icon of South Texas passes away

Thursday, August 26th, 2010


May of 2010. Mike Allen as he is being sworn by McAllen Federal Judge Crane. Photo Roberto Hugo Gonzalez.

Texas Border Business

Mike Allen, the former head of the McAllen Economic Development Corp., passes away as confirmed by a representative at the corporation.

“It is difficult to tell you, South Texas College has lost a great friend, relentless advocate, and admirer of our many accomplishments,” Dr. Shirley Reed stated to Texas Border Business.. Mr. Mike Allen, previous Chair of the South Texas College Board of Trustees, succumbed to complications from his battle with cancer.

Allen, aformer priest who led the corporation for 18 years, retired in 2006 butremained active in the Rio Grande Valley. Mike Allen had chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). He was diagnosed with it in October 2005 by Dr. Billie Marek of McAllen who referred him to M.D. Anderson.He was in remission from early 2009 until recently.

He was one of six cancer survivors honoredby the local chapter of the American Cancer Society at the Cattle Baron's Ball onJune 25. Mega Metropolis Health & Fitness May 2010 did an extensive report on six survivors included Mr. Allen

He admired South Texas College and recognized the contribution the College was making to the economic development and future prosperity of the region. He was a beloved friend of South Texas College, City of McAllen, and the entire deep South Texas border region of Texas.

Mike Allen became Texas Border Business cover twice during the last three years, first as he was stepping down as MEDC President and later as he was chosen the Border Texan of the Year during the Hidalgo, Texas festivities.

Publisher Roberto Hugo Gonzalez spent many hours with Mr. Allen in preparation of these two interviews.

By Roberto Hugo Gonzalez

In May 2010, he was reelected to Chair of the South Texas College Board of Trustees.

City of McAllen is working on a press release that will include all pertinent information about this sad chapter in south Texas. Texas Border Business and Mega Metropolis has volunteered all files related to Mr. Allen.

Dr. Reed asked for everyone to keep his wife Theresa, his sons, and all his family in your prayers. “Rest assured, he will continue to watch over us and admire all that we do for the people in the Rio Grande Valley,” she finalized.

Following is the link to the memorial site that is under development, but there are currently more than 70 photos posted of Mr. Allen along with three of his quotes.

 http://admin.southtexascollege.edu/memorial/allen/index.html

 

 

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