Milwaukee, WI - Born to Eternal Life on February 13, 2025, at age 87. Beloved wife of 59 years to the late Thomas Allen. Loving mother of Brian Allen, Bridget (Joe) Ciurlik, and the late Heather Dorsey. Cherished grandmother of Riley and Miranda Dorsey, and Declan Ciurlik. Dear sister to Sylvester Obremski and Mary Ann Schifferl. Preceded in death by her daughter Heather Dorsey, parents Theophil and Stella Obremski, and brother Richard.

Zita’s first love was her family. As a mother and wife, she nurtured her family’s passions, instilling in her children a love for nature, reading and lifelong learning. Although Zita appreciated nature, she disliked the cold, yet she always provided a warm meal after her children’s extracurricular activities. When grandchildren arrived, her love for family translated into countless adventures and a newfound tolerance for the cold, attending many outdoor events to support them. 

As a nursing educator at Alverno College for nearly 50 years, Zita Allen championed the personal and professional development of women and enriched the learning community in numerous ways. She was a consistent example of high-quality, student-focused teaching and visionary innovation. Her role modeling and mentoring had a lasting impact on both nursing and non-nursing students and peers at Alverno and beyond, in both national and international contexts. 

Zita was a lifelong learner with many interests and hobbies. She loved gardening, reading, traveling, history, and public health nursing. She also embraced the arts, from theater and museums to music and composing poetry. As she proudly proclaimed, “I enjoy the aesthetic of everything!” 

The family will hold a memorial gathering ~June 8, time and place TBA.  Please message Brian Allen at brizone@gmail.com or (206) 395-9737 to be added to the contact list for upcoming details in May.