Allen was his name, but he was lovingly nicknamed "Irish". He was a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, and friend. He was the salt of the earth type of human. If you were in need, he would provide. His wife Rochelle, a college instructor, was a magnet for students who needed extra love and a need to belong. Students are welcomed into the Richards-Burks home with open arms and Allen never questioned the many "adoptions" they have had over the years. Allen and Rochelle made Raven, one of their greatest joys, but they adopted many college students that have become family.

With a wicked sense of humor and a sarcastic streak to match, he could make you smile even on your worst day. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Allen served for 14 years and fondly recalled his memories in service. If you asked Allen what his greatest accomplishments were, he would overwhelmingly tell you about his marriage to Rochelle. Their love is the envious kind. After 17 years of marriage, they still held hands in the grocery store, had numerous inside jokes that they would chuckle about, and were genuinely still in love with each other. Allen's other love was his daughter, Raven. He always encouraged her free-spirit and was immensely proud of everything she did. He also leaves behind his father, Mike, with whom he was very close. His in-laws, the Richards',  loved Allen like a son and they too, are grief-stricken.

The sudden loss of Allen is nothing short of devastating. Allen was having pain and discomfort, Rochelle took him to the ER, and three days later he was gone. Heartbroken doesn't begin to describe this loss for Rochelle and Raven. Their pain is palpable.

As someone who would readily give help when needed, Rochelle is not one to ask for help so I am doing it for her. I set up this GoFundMe with the family's permission in an effort to help with with whatever they need in the coming months as they try to understand this tragedy and find their way through life post-loss. Rochelle is the beneficiary of this account and any donation you can provide, no matter how small, will tremendously help this family. 

Rochelle has acknowledged your love and support via your texts, phone, messages, cards, etc. She and Raven are so touched by your Loveland support  and they promise to respond when they are ready.