James (Jim) D. Allen passed peacefully at his home on Saturday, December 23, 2023. He was born on Oct 10, 1960, to Richard Allen and Nancy (Anderson) Des Jardin in Fort Atkinson, WI. He loved to travel abroad and to the big cities of the US. London called his name numerous times as he loved the culture, architecture, fashion and wine. Jim meant more to his family than he will ever know.
He was a WHS Class of ‘79 graduate and attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
Friends and family alike will remember Jim for his humor, vibrant personality and willingness to serve his community. If you were given a nickname by Jim, you truly made his list of special people.
Living in Whitewater his entire life, he became Whitewater’s biggest advocate, cheerleader, front-runner. He served on the Whitewater Common Council for 15 years and was once again serving as the president. His dedication to the city and his recent fight to restore the two Whitewater lakes to their once usable state, was his newest passion. His dedication to the City and the committees he was part of include Community Development Authority Board, Birge Fountain restoration, Plan & Architectural Review Commission and the recently formed Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee (LAC). Beyond the committees, Jim worked tirelessly trying to convince a grocery store that Whitewater would be a good fit and often emceed the 4th of July Parade. There were so many issues over the years to which he selflessly gave his time and dedication. The ‘yeas and nays’ he made were well thought out and researched in detail, prior to his vote for the betterment of the community he dutifully served.
Jim worked at Randy’s Supper Club / Randy’s Funhunter’s Brewery where he loved his ‘regulars,’ the staff, wedding guests and meeting new customers.
Later, he worked for Catering & Food Services at UW-Whitewater, connecting with and mentoring staff whom he loved like family. Many of his co-workers became lifelong friends.
After retirement, Jim drove school bus for the Head Start Program with Nelson Bus Company- the littles also became a big part of Jim’s heart. He enjoyed making sure they had a smile each day along with a happy, safe ride.
He anonymously would leave presents on doorsteps for families that needed a little help during the Holidays. While being private about his own life, he had compassion and empathy for others and called on many just to check on them.
James is preceded in death by his brother, Steven Allen (1981), his father Richard Allen (2011), his stepfather Ken Des Jardin (2020), along with many special friends and family.
He is survived by his mother Nancy Des Jardin (East Troy), sister Kim (Bruce) Pontel (Harshaw), stepmother Gloria Allen (Delavan), nieces Danielle (Jeremy) Stowers, Kellie Pontel (Whitewater), five nieces, two nephews, loyal friends and extended family members. `.
Thank you to the WW Police Department & Walworth County Sheriff’s Department for quickly responding to the family’s call.
Per his wishes, there will be no formal service, but family and friends may call during visitation hours on Friday, December 29, from 4-6 p.m. at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater.
Jim will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery next to his brother Steven, during a private ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The American Heart Association, the City of Whitewater Lakes Advisory Committee (LAC), a local pet rescue or Humane Society.
