Frances U. Allen

ALBANY – Frances U. Allen, 77, of Albany, while surrounded by her loving family was carried to heaven in the arms of the angels on Tuesday, June 8, 2010.  Born August 25, 1932 to Biagio Burometto and Angela Papa, the youngest of six.  Fran grew up and attended school at St John’s in the Albany South End fondly known as “Little Italy”.  She began her love of people while helping to run her father’s store, “Burometto’s Food Mart” on Green St.  She met and married her one and only love, Kenneth Allen in 1952 and rejoiced in the birth of their only child in 1957.  During their life together they bought and operated the former “Hide-a-way” on Rt 4 in East Greenbush until Ken’s tragic demise in an automobile accident in 1960.  Being the strong woman she was, Fran picked herself up and went on to build a wonderful, fulfilling life for herself and her daughter.  Prior to her retirement Fran worked as a manager for the IRS in Latham.  After retirement Fran’s management abilities branched out to benefit her church, All Saints Catholic Church (the former St Margaret Mary’s) in Albany.  There Fran organized the very first garage sale which over the years blossomed into one of the biggest financial aids to the church community.  She was also proud to get her beloved “Granny Squares” off the ground.  These remarkable women have outfitted numerous needy groups around the city with sweaters, blankets, hat, mittens or anything requested.  If it could be crafted, her “Granny’s” would figure out how to get it done.  Even during her illness she was so happy to know her “Granny’s” were going strong and would long after she was gone.  Left to mourn her departure are her daughter Barbara and her son-in-law Art Dougall, who no matter what could make her laugh even at the worst of times.  Her two granddaughters Angela and Lindsay whom she really believed the world revolved around.  And the other important “little man” in her life, her great-grandson Kenny.  She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended families.  Fran was predeceased by her brothers Frank (Tony), Vincent (Jimmy), Charles (Charlie), Mario and one sister Mary Robelotto.

The family would like to send a special thank you to her friends Kay Shaughnessy,  Terry Girzone, Lois Leikhim and countless others whose visits throughout her short illness kept her spirit strong.  Right up to the day she passed she looked forward to all the cards, calls and blessings she received. Also, a special thanks to the on-call nurses at the Community Hospice who offered their support during the difficult times, but mostly to her nurse Bernadette, and her caregiver Tiara who treated her with such tender, loving ways  the family will be forever grateful.

In keeping with Fran’s giving ways, she has made an anatomical gift to Albany Medical College therefore there will be no viewing.  In lieu of flowers Fran has asked donations be made in her name to The Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205.  A memorial mass will be celebrated at All Saints Catholic Church on Homestead St., Albany at 9:30 AM on Saturday, June 12, 2010.  Immediately following will be a “Celebration of Life” at the Italian American Community Center.  All are invited to attend and share stories of this incredible woman.  Interment of Fran’s ashes will be at a later date beside her husband at Calvary Cemetery in Glenmont.  To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .