Dale “Pop” William Allen Sr., 80, of Sarasota, Fla., formerly of Myakka City, Fla., died Monday.

Dale was born in Butler, the son of Gideon and Anna McNeisch Allen, and was raised on his parent's farm with 10 siblings.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1954 to 1957, then married and moved to Sarasota, Fla., in 1958.

Dale established South Trail Tire Co. in 1964 and the Double D Ranch in Myakka City in 1985. He operated the tire business until his retirement in 1993, but continued running the cattle ranch for many years. He earned lifelong respect and admiration from all who knew him.

Throughout his life, Dale was an avid outdoorsman, he bestowed his knowledge and passion for fishing and hunting to his children and grandchildren.

Music was also a very happy part of his life. Picking at his guitar and singing homemade country tunes with the “little ones” as his audience gave him no greater pleasure.

Dale's foremost accomplishment was the love he shared with his bride, Lucy, of 60 years, alongside whom he selflessly gifted his wisdom, kindness, patience and love to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Each of us will sadly miss Pop, but we will forever cherish all of the happy memories he left in our hearts.

Dale is survived by his wife, Lucy; his daughter, Regina O'Connors; two sons, Dale W. Allen Jr. and his wife, Cathy Allen, and Darren Allen and his wife, Jennifer Allen; two sisters, Sara Schultz and Norma Cuffman; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Fred Allen.

ALLEN — Services for Dale “Pop” William Allen Sr., who died Monday, April 10, 2017, will be private.The Toale Brothers Ewing Chapel, Venice, Fla., is in charge of arrangements.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2970 University Parkway, Suite 104, Sarasota, FL 34243, or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.