Allen D. Mahnesmith

Allen D. Mahnesmith, 72, of Wataga, Illinois, died on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.

He was born December 6, 1951 in Galesburg, the son of John and Norma (Davis) Mahnesmith, Jr. Allen was reared and educated in Galesburg, graduating from high school in 1970. For 50 years, he worked at Harvey Brothers Electric as a rebuild technician, retiring in 2016. Allen was a jack of all trades, he enjoyed keeping himself busy from one project to the next whether it was woodworking, construction, or making custom furniture. Allen married Jane A. Simpson on August 22, 1970 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Wataga.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 53 years, Jane Mahnesmith of Wataga; two sons, Benjamin (Jami) Mahnesmith of New Windsor, Illinois and Tim (Cindy) Mahnesmith of Troy, Illinois; two grandsons, AJ and Lane Mahnesmith, both of Troy; one brother, Roger (Diane) Mahnesmith of Wataga; one sister, Rose (Rob) Robbins of Wataga; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Allen’s greatest joy in life was his family, no matter the circumstances family always came first. He lived a life characterized by kindness, friendliness, and an unwavering love for his family and friends. Allen loved bowling, and had a fascination with classic cars. He was a devoted and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend and will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, March 4, 2024 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory. Funeral Service is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at the funeral home. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. Cremation will take place following services. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.