Allen Eiler
Allen Eiler, age 58, of Duluth, MN formerly Olivia, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023 at his home. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, January 3 at 1:15 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. Joe Steinbeisser as celebrant. Visitation will be on Tuesday, January 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Dirks-Blem Funeral Home in Olivia and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. Memorials are preferred to Donate Life (2225 West River Road North Minneapolis, MN 55411).
Allen John Eiler was born on July 22, 1965 to Robert and Lucille (Tersteeg) Eiler in Olivia, MN. He graduated from Bird Island Lake Lillian High School. Allen was united in marriage on June 22, 1985 to Karen Bailey in Abilene, TX. Allen served his country in the United States Air Force; he joined after graduating high school.
Allen received a double lung transplant on the 4th of July 28 years ago, making him one of the longest living transplant recipient of this kind. He then received a kidney transplant in 2009 from someone who became like family following the procedure. He was a member of Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters. He enjoyed watching the Minnesota Vikings and many trips to Sturgis on his motorcycle. He had a fun sense of humor and would quote movies and songs quite often.
Allen and Karen made their home in Olivia for many years while they owned and operated ‘Karen’s Creative Quilting and Sew Much More’ in Bird Island before moving to Duluth to be near family six years ago. Allen will be remembered for his talkative and friendly outgoing nature.
Allen is survived by his wife, Karen of Duluth; his son, Mike Eiler of Duluth; his daughters, Syvanna (and Blake) Thibodaux of Duluth and Amanda (and Kelly) Elfering of Bird Island; his grandchildren: Andrew, Mae, Levi, Grace, and Luke; his siblings: Jim (and Jan) Eiler of Bird Island, Theresa Roering of St. Cloud, Pattie Eiler of Olivia, Steve Eiler of Bird Island, and Dennis Eiler of Bird Island. Allen was preceded in death by his parents.
Blessed Be His Memory