Kentucky Colonel Walter Allen of Knox Passes Away at 99

The original owner and operator of the Zingo Service Station in Knox has died.

Walter Allen, 99 of Knox, was also bestowed the title of Kentucky Colonel by two different Kentucky governors. Kentucky Colonel is the highest title of honor bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Commissions for Kentucky Colonels are given by the governor and the secretary of state to individuals in recognition of noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to a community, state or the nation.

Some notable recipients to receive the distinction along with Allen include Jack Dempsey; Colonel Harland Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken; Winston Churchill; Pope John Paul II; Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York; and Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge.

Services for Walter Allen are scheduled for today at 11 a.m. at the M.C. Smith Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Bible Baptist Church Building Fund.