Norman A. Allen, Jr.

After defying the odds for many years and several close calls in the past, Norman A. Allen Jr. died on January 15, 2025 at Saint Vincent Hospital at the age of 79. The cumulative effects of age and suspected Agent Orange exposure finally caught up to him. 

Born in Gloversville, NY on October 20, 1945, Norman was raised by his late mother and step-father, Neoma and William Logan in Erie, PA (the early years), and later the Albany-Schenectady, NY area. He was proud of his Native American and West Indian heritage and even prouder of his military service in Vietnam (1966-1968). 

Norman was employed as a chef manager for SUNY Albany Auxiliary Services, operated his own restaurant for several years in Westfield, NY, and eventually worked at the Erie Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home. He had been a member of the PA National Guard and later volunteered with the Erie/Crawford County Police Association. Early on Norman had attended culinary school, and later earned a degree from Tri-State Business Institute. 

While living in Albany Norman had been a competitive bowler. He loved blues and soul music, enjoyed good food, poker, scratch-off lottery tickets, and was a fan of the Bills and Mets. Whenever he could, Norman would help anyone who needed encouragement, assistance, or advice. He touched many lives in his own way. 

Norman is survived by his wife of 45 years, Marian (Riedesel), daughters Jennifer (John Streeter) of Erie and Valerie (Andre Brown) of Chester, VA, sons Norman of Brooklyn, NY and Marc of Albany, NY. Grandchildren include Claudia, Abigail, Julia, and Kathryn. Many others called him Grandpa whether related by blood or by circumstance, most recently Yazmen and Brendan from VA and Carson from across the street. Siblings Marie, Jackie, and Dennis also survive as well as numerous extended family members. 

Preceding Norman in death were his son, Jacob A. Allen, his sister, Penny Harris, and a cousin, Veronica Kane who was more like a sister. 

The family would like to thank the Saint Vincent Hospital staff, AHN doctors, the VA Medical Center, and Fairview Manor employees and residents who made Norman’s last few months there almost enjoyable. 

Arrangements entrusted to Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc. Downtown, 602 W. 10th Street, Erie. 

No services are planned at this time. To honor Norman’s memory, please consider supporting the Erie Police Athletic League, or simply do a random act of kindness for a friend, neighbor, or stranger. 

Send condolences to: www.BurtonQuinnScott.com