Dr. Christopher (Chris) T. Allen
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Dr. Christopher (Chris) T. Allen, devoted husband, loving father, faithful deacon, distinguished engineer, and beloved professor, passed away unexpectedly on December 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Independence, Missouri, on October 7, 1958, to the late Raymond and Margaret Allen, Chris’s life was marked by love, faith, and an unwavering pursuit of knowledge.
Chris earned his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Kansas, where he laid the foundation for a distinguished career in engineering and research.
His lifelong love story with Peggy (Gooding) began in first grade when he tenderly expressed his affection through a get-well-soon card—a devotion he carried throughout their lives together.
Married in 1980, Chris and Peggy began their married life filled with love, purpose, and laughter, in Lawrence, Kansas. The couple welcomed their first daughter, Katie, in 1981, followed by their son, Christopher, in 1983. Soon after completing his Ph.D. in 1984, Chris joined Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he contributed to the development of radar technology and nuclear defense systems. During their time in Albuquerque, the Allens celebrated the births of Emily in 1985, and Anna in 1989.
In 1992, the family returned to Independence, Missouri, where Chris began his enduring career as a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Kansas. Over the years, he became a renowned researcher in lightwave/photonics systems, microwave remote sensing, and radar system design, holding numerous patents. His work was a reflection of his passion for innovation and his commitment to a safer world.
Chris was not only a dedicated researcher but also an inspiring teacher and mentor. His excellence in education earned him prestigious awards, including the Eta Kappa Nu Harry Talley Excellence in Teaching Award, the Ned N. Fleming Trust Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the W.T. Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence. Above all, he cherished the opportunity to guide and inspire his students, sharing with them the same love of discovery that defined his life.
Rooted deeply in the Catholic faith to which he converted in 2005, Chris was ordained as a deacon in 2020. He found immense joy in serving his parish and community. His kindness, humility, and unwavering dedication to others were living testaments to his faith and love for God.
Chris will be remembered as a man of profound intellect, deep compassion, great humor, and steadfast love for his family.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Peggy; his children, Katie (Brandon), Independence, MO; Chris (Rachel), Leawood, KS; Emily (Chris), Platte City, MO; and Anna (Philip), Hamburg, Germany; his sister Jill (Suzanne), Independence, MO; brother Ray (Roxanne), Longview, TX; brother Pat (Stephanie), Blue Springs, MO; and his nine grandchildren, and two dogs, who brought him immeasurable joy.
A Rosary service will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 5:30 PM, followed by a visitation from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 6001 W. 15th St., Lawrence, Kansas. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas or Corpus Christi Catholic School honoring Chris’s lifelong devotion to faith, family, and education.
Chris’s legacy of love, service, and discovery will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by his family, friends, colleagues, and countless students whose lives he profoundly touched.
My heart is aching for all of you but especially you Peggy! We love you and are praying for you!!!
Deacon Chris was a great mentor, friend and inspiration to all in the Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Always smiling and a soft spoken “ hi” or “good morning.” We will truly miss him. I understand when the Lord calls His followers home. He was such a great husband, father, grandfather, brother, Deacon, friend and soul to all who knew him. RIP Deacon Chris til we see each other again. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family.
To the Allen Family and loved ones,
Chris’ presence was one felt far and wide, through Anna’s stories and the memories she shared with us all the way in Hamburg, Germany. I may have never met Chris, but I am thankful everyday that he is part of the reason I have Anna to call my friend and family abroad. His humour and grace were something I have only experienced secondhand, yet he always came across as someone steadfast, reliable, caring, and good-natured.
If you will allow me, I grieve your loss with you and send you only the best of wishes during this time. My thoughts are with you always.
With much love from Hamburg to KC,
Stella
Dear Allen Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear about your loss, and though I never had the honor of meeting Chris, I feel as though I knew him through the countless stories shared with me by Anna. The love, admiration, and joy she carried when speaking about him painted a picture of a truly remarkable person—someone kind, strong, and deeply cherished.
It is clear that he touched many lives, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Even from afar, I feel a profound connection to his spirit through Anna’s memories and the impact he had on shaping the wonderful person she is today.
Please know that my thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time. I send you strength, comfort, and my heartfelt condolences as you navigate this loss. May his memory forever bring light and love to your hearts.
With deepest sympathy and all my support,
Toni
Chris was a kind, loving and intelligent person.His son Chris married my daughter Rachel and I was blessed to know him.I have a wonderful memory of him at a family event with 5 grandbabies on his lap! He was a calming presence with everyone.When he entered heaven I know God said”Well done good and faithful servant.”My deepest sympathy to the whole family.🙏🙏🙏
I was deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Chris Allen’s passing. Having had the privilege to know him personally, I can attest to his generous and kind-hearted nature. When we first arrived in Lawrence and faced challenging times, Chris and his wife Peggy extended their support and kindness to us in ways that left a lasting impact. Their generosity was a beacon of light for our family as we navigated our new surroundings.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Dr. Allen’s benevolence and spirit have touched many lives, and his legacy will surely endure in the memories of those who knew him.
With deepest sympathy,
Gulzhanat
Peggy and Family,
This obituary deeply touches my heart. What a wonderful man. Chris’ love and dedication shines through in all areas of his life. You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you process this tremendous loss. Prayers of comfort and support are being said for your entire family.
God Bless,
Rosemary Meyers