By JOHN ANDERSON
Wellsville Village Police said Thomas Allen, 72, of Pine Street, died Tuesday morning after a fire that destroyed his home.
His wife was also taken to Jones Memorial Hospital and she is recovering from injuries.
Allen was a fixture around Wellsville and well-known on Main Street with his signature white beard.
Allen, a 1968 graduate of Friendship Central School and as a child, endured a tragic childhood. During his high school years, he was riding in a car with his parents and six siblings when a car accident claimed the life of five members of his family including his parents and three siblings.
Several years ago, he lost a son unexpectedly during an accident in Cuba.
The Allen’s had a daughter and grandchild living next door. There are some friends online trying to raise money for the family.
Checks can be mailed to Shepherd of the Valley 4229 Fassett Lane Wellsville, NY 14895. Make out to the church, but specify it is for Pine street fire in the memo.
Here is the story from the fire:
