Christopher Allen

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.