Urbandale, Iowa – Charles Allen Spencer, 72 left this earth on Monday, April 12, 2021. Allen passed at home surrounded by his loving wife Erin Walker and his loving ex-wife Barbara Spencer, following a courageous battle with cancer. Allen was born August 25, 1948 in Goldsboro, North Carolina to the parents of Elizabeth Spencer and Curtis Vaught.
Allen spent his younger years in North Carolina, New York, Ohio and Kentucky. He received a degree in Human Services from Ohio University, which he would utilize later in his life. He came to Des Moines Iowa and made this his home. While in Des Moines, Allen worked at various jobs until he and his wife, Barbara Spencer founded the Port of Entry, a men’s residential drug recovery house. Port of Entry was a safe haven for many addicts seeking recovery. Allen also worked with many leaders and organizations in the community to make humanitarian improvements. He wrote and assisted in writing many grants for agencies. He was a member of Narcotics Anonymous and a deacon at the Bread of Life Church of God in Christ.
Allen was proceeded in death by his mother, Elizabeth and father, Curtis. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife Erin Walker, Urbandale, beloved children, Jennifer Martin, Des Moines, IA; Martina Martin, Des Moines, IA; John Martin Sr, (Zuanteasa Washington), West Des Moines, IA; Candrcay Cooper (April), Lincoln NE; Matthew Veik (Jessica), Knoxville, IA, Luke Veik (Kaela), Knoxville, IA. Allen had 15 grandchildren: Dominique Settles, Tyana Settles, John Martin, Makayla Pendleton, Jania Martin, Easton Copper, Brynley Cooper, Dathin Cooper, Bryelle Cooper, Rayah Veik, Haley Veik, Josie Veik, Jaxon Veik, Jonah Veik, Jade Veik and 2 great grandchildren: Malachai Settles and Aamira Settles. His friend and ex-wife Barbara Spencer, a brother Donald, many cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends.
Allen loved being with family and telling stories of the past. He would engage in conversation with anyone and everyone. He loved people and was a giving and loving son, brother, father, husband, uncle and friend.
Allen’s body will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held at Bread of Life C.O.G.I.C. on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 12:00pm Noon, 2727 East Railroad Ave, Des Moines, IA. Facemask is required.
