Honoring Paul Allen: A Legacy of Faith, Business, and Community a true MVP
In the heart of Enid, Oklahoma, stands a testament to a man whose impact will be felt for generations. Paul Allen was more than a successful businessman; he was a devoted husband, a loving father, a man of deep faith, and a pillar of the Enid community. His story is one of humble beginnings, monumental success, and unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of those around him.
I remember the first time I encountered Paul. I was visiting a new facility in Enid for No Man’s Land Jerky. As I pulled into the parking lot, I noticed a car running with its door left open. After closing the door and mentioning it to the front desk, they chuckled and said, “Oh, that’s Paul. He does that to keep his car cool sometimes.” That was my first introduction to Paul Allen, a man who left his car running sometimes to keep it cool, but who also left an indelible mark on his city, Enid.
Paul’s contributions to Enid are countless. He funded the David Allen Memorial Ballpark, named in honor of his late son, David. This ballpark, one of the nation’s finest amateur baseball ballparks, has become a cherished landmark, bringing joy and community spirit to all who visit. I had the privilege of taking my son and nephew to a few games last summer during the NJCAA World Series. When they each caught a foul ball, I pointed out Paul as he walked to his car and told them, “That’s the man who made this place possible.” They ran over, asking for his autograph, and Paul, ever humble, graciously signed their baseballs, leaving a lasting impression on them.
Paul’s generosity extended beyond the ballpark. He supported numerous local ventures, like No Man’s Land Jerky, Autry Tech’s Business Plan Competition and tons of others which I’m sure would fill up an entire book. He played a crucial role in developing the new Advance Soccer Complex. Despite his monumental success, having sold his business Advance Food for billions, Paul remained down-to-earth and deeply connected to his roots. He never let wealth change who he was; instead, he used it to uplift his community.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Paul Allen was his humility and faith. He was a regular at Rotary meetings, engaging with everyone and remembering their names. He shared his journey, his stories, the challenges he faced, and how his Christian faith guided him through it all. His story inspired many, including my own family, as we saw firsthand the power of giving back and staying true to one’s values. Listen below to his entire Rotary speech from a few years ago.
Paul Allen’s legacy in Enid is one of love, generosity, and unwavering commitment. His influence can be seen in every corner of the city, from the ballpark to the businesses he supported. He showed us that true success isn’t just about financial gain but about enriching the lives of others and leaving a lasting legacy. Paul Allen was a true MVP for Enid and I pray I can be more like him when I grow up.
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