Fern Louise Allen

MCFARLAND–Fern L. (nee Rosio) Allen, age 79 passed away Wednesday, January 2, 2013 at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg. Fern was born in Crandon on May 16, 1933, the daughter of the late Louis and Mildred (Knoke) Rosio.

Fern graduated from high school in 1951 and attended the University of WI-Madison where she majored in vocal music.

She was united in marriage to Louis E. “Gene” Allen on March 20th, 1954 in Crandon, WI. The couple moved to McFarland in 1970 where their five children attended school. In 1982, Fern established “Earth Designs Floral Shoppe” and was active in community affairs, helping to found the McFarland Village Library. Fern was honored “Citizen of the Year” in 2009.

Fern is survived by her loving husband, Gene; 5 children: Debra Claire, Steve, Jackie, Daniel and Randy; 4 grandchildren, Matt, Sam, Wolfgang, and Sheridan; 2 sisters and 1 brother, Thelma, Marjorie and Herb; also numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, and brother, Glen.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2013 at Cress Funeral Home, 5801 Highway 51, McFarland. The family will greet friends from noon until the time of service. There will be refreshments during this time.