Allen R. Stevenson

Allen Ray Stevenson, 61, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

Allen was born on July 6, 1963, to Harvey Jr. and Carol (Hoeness) Stevenson and was raised by his grandmother, Lura Hoeness. A lifelong Iowan, Allen called many communities home throughout his life, including Rolfe, Winterset, Pocahontas, and Jefferson. He graduated high school and spent his years dedicated to the simple pleasures of life and the people around him.

In September 2002, Allen met the love of his life, Jennifer Leigh Jones and they were married July 10, 2004. Though they later divorced, the bond they shared never did. He remained devoted to Jennifer and cared deeply for her children, proudly considering them his own. He spoiled them with love and attention every chance he got and was always a constant, joyful presence in their lives.

A passionate hobbyist, Allen had a love for model trains and could spend hours studying maps and tracing the many railway lines throughout Iowa. His fascination with trains was more than a pastime - it was a lifelong enthusiasm. Allen was known for his warm spirit and strong work ethic, particularly in his years working at various Breadeaux Pizza locations, where he took great pride in making pizzas and enjoyed serving others.

Known to many by his nickname “Alf,” Allen was beloved for his big heart and easygoing nature. Everyone loved him and he did not have a mean streak in him. He was always happy, but get him mad, look out, run—lol.

He was never a stranger for long; he had a way of meeting new people and quickly adopting them as family. He had a gift for storytelling; even if you didn’t always know what he was trying to say, he had a way of turning even the smallest moment into something memorable. He never loses things, but just a week before his passing he lost his wallet and was so angry. Jennifer walked in, picked up his pants and there it was in his front pocket—thank you, Jesus.

He cherished the people in his life and built a family beyond blood. Allen always dreamed of being a brother, uncle, husband, father, and grandfather—and in his own way, he fulfilled each of those roles, though life didn’t always make it easy.

He will be remembered for his kind heart, quiet enthusiasm, and the pride he took in his work and interests.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, Lura; and a step-grandson. He is survived by his beloved friend, Jennifer (Kurt) Sproston; 2 stepchildren; 5 step-grandchildren; special friends, Josh, Debbie, and Brian; and his beloved cat.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel, with Pastor Richard Kaiser officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for a future designation.