Kenneth “Allen” Fann, age 87
Kenneth “Allen” Fann of West Des Moines, Iowa, formerly of Atlantic, Iowa passed away Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa.
Allen was born December 8, 1937, to Edris (Mason) and Lyle Fann. After graduating from Clarinda High School in 1956, Allen attended Iowa Western Community College before transferring to Drake University, where he earned his pharmacy degree. During his time at Drake, he was an active member of Sigma Phi Epsilon, fostering lifelong friendships and a commitment to service.
In 1960, Allen married his high school sweetheart, Marianne Buch. The couple moved to Atlantic, Iowa, in 1965, where they raised their two children, Jill and Craig. Allen’s dedication to his profession led him to establish Fann Pharmacy in 1970, serving the community with unwavering commitment. Later he continued his expertise as a pharmacist at Cass County Memorial Hospital. His hard work and dedication were recognized in 2000 when he was named Health-System Pharmacist of the Year by the Iowa Pharmacy Association.
A true workhorse, Allen often worked late hours but always prioritized his family’s activities. He would adjust his schedule to attend his children’s track meets and other events, sometimes having family dinners at the pharmacy just to spend quality time together.
Allen’s passion for sports was evident throughout his life. In his younger years, he showcased his athleticism by participating in football, baseball, and track. His enthusiasm continued as a dedicated supporter of the Atlantic Trojans, frequently attending their games. Allen’s allegiance extended to the Iowa Hawkeyes, where he relished the vibrant tailgating culture in Iowa City. He also cheered passionately for the Drake Bulldogs and the Chicago Cubs, often engaging in spirited discussions about teams and referees. Later in life, Allen took up golf, finding joy and camaraderie on the greens.
Beyond his professional and sporting interests, Allen was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of the Iowa Pharmacy Association, contributing to the advancement of the profession. Allen also dedicated his time and leadership to local organizations, including the Jaycees, the Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, and Zion Lutheran Church, where his faith played a central role in his life. Known for his ability to fall asleep anywhere, Allen balanced his industrious nature with moments of rest and reflection.
Allen’s pride and joy were his children and grandchildren: Emma, Madeline, and Hayden. He cherished his time on the bleachers, watching his kids swim and run track. Later in life, Allen and Marianne traveled across the country to support their grandchildren in various sporting events. His face would light up whenever those three were around or mentioned.
In 2021, after Allen was diagnosed with HSV Encephalitis, he and Marianne decided to relocate to West Des Moines to be closer to family.
Allen’s legacy of dedication, love, and service will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Preceding Allen in death were his wife, Marianne Fann, father, Lyle Fann; mother, Edris Fann; sisters, Judy Altfillisch Kehm and Karen Alford; father-in-law, Henry Buch; mother-in-law, Gertrude Buch; brothers-in-law, William Bruning, Darwin Buch and Don Buch; and sisters-in-law, Bev Buch and Donna Lee Buch.
Those surviving Allen are his children, Jill (Paul) Huntley of Urbandale, Iowa and Craig Fann (Mike Hicken) of Iowa City, Iowa; grandchildren, Emma Huntley of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Madeline Huntley of Des Moines, Iowa, and Hayden Huntley of Urbandale/ Iowa City, Iowa; sisters, Jill (Dennis) Fain of Denver, Colorado and Elaine Bruning of Savannah, Georgia; brother, Randy Fann (Kathy Fletcher) of Lincoln, California; sister-in-law, Nadine (Jim) Lillie of Oahu, Hawaii; and many nephews and nieces.
The Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be Tuesday, April 22nd at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Atlantic, Iowa. A luncheon will be held at the Atlantic Golf & Country Club immediately following the service until 1:30 p.m. The family will proceed to the Atlantic Cemetery for inurnment at 2 p.m.
The service will be recorded and available on the funeral home website by end of day Wednesday, April 23rd.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Cass Health Foundation, 1501 East 10th Street, Atlantic, Iowa 50022.
Roland Funeral Service is caring for Allen’s family and his arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.
