Dr. Allen L. Dickes

Dr. Allen L. Dickes passed away peacefully on June 24, 2020. Al was born in Sioux City, IA on August 4, 1943 to Raymond and Bonnie Dickes, the oldest of six. The Dickes' settled in Des Moines, IA in 1957 where Al excelled in school, enjoyed athletics, and had an amazing work ethic. He took being the oldest sibling and best big brother seriously. His brothers and sisters confirm he was one of the "coolest cats" at Lincoln High School and always knew when and how to help each of them. He graduated as a National Merit Scholar from Lincoln HS in 1961; earned a bachelor's and master's in history and economics from Iowa State Univ., and a PhD in Economic History from Univ. of Toledo.

His academic career began at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas in Institutional Research. In Texas he embraced a new fashion sense with cowboy boots and cowboy hats and  a love of country music, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and others of the era. In 1978 he moved to Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas where he filled both academic and administrative roles over 30 years, retiring as an emeritus faculty. His last role was the Dean of Enrollment Management for 12 years and also served as Secretary of the General Faculty for 29 years. Other roles at the University included Executive Assistant to the President, Vice President of Student Affairs, Director of Institutional Research, 30 years as an Instructor of Economics and Interim Head of "you name it."  He loved solving problems and rose to the challenge whatever the university threw his way. Perhaps his greatest pleasure came from his students though, teaching and mentoring them to successful careers, and also building friendships that lasted throughout his life. University President Farley commented that Al had a wonderful rapport with students and influenced many student's lives.

Al was more than his work; he was a published scholar, an avid runner, a friend and beloved family member. He loved talking politics, cars, and motorcycles with friends and family. His athleticism and stamina were astounding; whether it was playing tennis for hours in the heat or running 10 miles in tennis shoes with no support he kept on playing. A tennis or golf match might find him saying repeatedly "Damn It Dickes," as he regularly critiqued his performance for all to hear. A great day might have been driving his BMW Z-4 to meet friends at the World Cup Café, playing a round of golf, then off to a dinner of his favorite cuisine. Perhaps his greatest pleasure other than family was touring on his Harley Davidson. He once said he was a "flat lander" and loved the open road of the Midwest, whether in a car or on a motorcycle. A man of many affectations, Allen left a legacy to friends, colleagues and family of the value of hard work, respect, fairness, and the importance of community.

He is survived by wife, Colleen; son, Andrew Dickes; daughter Dr. Lori A. Dickes and son-in-law Keith Housand; three grandchildren, Alexandra, Timothy and Samuel; and his siblings, Barbara D. Garrett, Lawrence Dickes, Bruce Dickes, Raymond Dickes, and Steven Dickes. He will be missed by all.

The family would like to thank our Heros, Dr. Wm. Dennis Harris & Staff, Dr. Keelyn Ericson & Staff; and Heartland Hospice for their quality care provided to Al.

Al  always believed in the power of education  and in his memory we ask that any donations please be sent to the School of Business General Scholarship Fund and can be sent to Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation, 1729 SW MacVicar Ave., Topeka, KS 66604

A celebration of Allen's life will be planned for Fall depending on the state of the world. Please email Lori Dickes- lorid@clemson.edu if you would like to be included in future information about Al's services.