Thatcher "Tick" Allen

Thatcher “Tick” Newton Allen, age 86, passed away after a life centered on his family, strong faith, and a gift for bringing love and laughter to those around him. 

Tick graduated from Rockford East High School in 1957. He served two years in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960, stationed in Germany as a Radio Radar Repairman, and was honorably discharged with the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4).

Following his military service, he married Carolorene (“Carol”) Hodgson on May 7, 1960. Carol was a graduate of Rockford East High School in 1958. Tick and Carol began their life together as married students at the University of Wisconsin, where Tick earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and where their sons, Todd and Brad, were born.

He began his career with Kohler Company in Kohler, Wisconsin, and later worked in California as a district manager in the generator division. During this time, their daughter, Caren, was born. The family later lived in Rockford, Illinois, and Pennsylvania, where he opened an office for Generac, before settling in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, from 1972 to 1979, where they made lifelong friends.

In 1979, the family moved to Crystal Lake, Illinois, where he remained a resident for the rest of his life. He continued his career working for Generac and later became a distributor in the commercial standby generator industry. He was a terrific salesman, known for his personality and sense of humor.

Tick was a long-time friend of Bill W., helping many people over more than 45 years and making a lasting impact on countless lives. His Christian faith was an important part of who he was and guided the way he lived.

Above all else, Tick was a devoted husband and father. He shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Carol. Together, they built a close-knit family that meant everything to him.

Tick is survived by his wife, Carol Allen; his children, Todd Allen (Connie), Brad Allen (Shauna), and Caren Thrun (Scott); his grandchildren, Ryan, Maddie, Kelly, Kaylie, and Nick; and his siblings, Kris Lyden and Bill Allen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth M. Allen and Virginia (Newton) Allen.

Tick will be remembered for his sense of humor, his generosity, and the deep love he had for his family.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., followed by a service at 3:00 p.m. at Fellowship of Faith Church, 6120 Mason Hill Road, McHenry, Illinois 60050.

Memorials in Tick's name may be made to Fellowship of Faith Church. 

His life was a blessing to all who knew him.