Allen G. Parelman passed away on Jan. 24, 2023.
The family lost their amazing husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather and dear friend at 88 years of age and far, far too soon. He departed doing what he loved: riding his bike to get in shape for his 31st season of downhill skiing. This beautiful soul was a role model to his family. He supported his extended family unconditionally, and they all felt his absolute, non-judgmental love.
A modest and unassuming man, he probably would not focus on his long successful career as an ophthalmologist, nor would he mention the fact that he was a pioneer in instrumenting a form of cataract surgery still in use today. On the other hand, he would be quick to talk about his wonderful wife, Jean, and his four children, Joe, Julie, Amy and Ken, their spouses, and his nine grandchildren and great-grandson. And, in the next breath, he would also mention Jean’s children, their spouses, and their many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved as his own. Allen is preceded in departing by his beloved first wife, Gloria; his father, Joe; his mother, Rosa; his sister, Carol; his stepsister, Rita; and his daughter-in-law, Staci.
What the family wants to share is how they so admire Allen’s passion for living. He would often relate that, in retirement, he had never been busier or had fuller days. Allen was always passionate about learning with an especially keen interest in history. He loved to listen to classical music, attend educational classes, follow current events, travel, visit family, bike, ski, and relax with a great book. The family wants to share their admiration for how he was so patient and so very slow to anger. Not only generous with his time with friends and family, Allen was also committed to the betterment of the world through charity and tzedakah.
Allen was someone who loved fiercely and lived fully despite experiencing deep loss. The family are all inspired to follow his example as they grieve his passing.
Memorial donations may be made to the Kansas City Symphony, Sasone (sasone.org, a Jewish educational program for students with special needs), or the charity of your choice — what is important to you was always important to Allen.
Online condolences for the family may be left at www.louismemorialchapel.com.
