Dr. Allen Marber

In Loving Memory of Dr. Allen Sheldon Marber

April 10, 1939 – May 16, 2025

Allen Marber passed away on May 16, 2025, at the age of 86 leaving behind his loving wife, Joan McCarthy Marber, his children, Joshua Marber and Jared Marber (Jill), Christy Kyhl (Carson), Kevin McCarthy (Kathleen), Brendan McCarthy, Charles McCarthy (Sharon), Timothy McCarthy (Julie), and Terrence McCarthy (Patricia), and sister, Ruth Ann Siegel (Lew). He is also remembered by his cherished grandchildren, Logan Marber, Madeline Kyhl, Jackson Kyhl, Carlin Kyhl, Owen Kyhl, Ava McCarthy, Mason McCarthy, Kaitlyn McCarthy, and Cara McCarthy.

Allen Marber was a husband, father, grandfather, professor, brother, larger-than-life personality, and the kind of person who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Born in 1939, Allen grew up in the Bronx, where he spent his early years navigating city life. Though he didn’t always relish the task, he dutifully brought his younger sister, Ruth Ann, to Yankees games with his friends—early evidence of the family ties that would define him throughout his life.

He went on to earn advanced degrees and build a distinguished academic career, eventually becoming a respected professor of marketing and history at several universities. In the classroom, Allen was known for his commanding presence, deep knowledge, and unwavering support for his students.

Outside academia, Allen’s life was just as full. He raised his sons, Jared and Josh, in New York with his first wife, Marilyn. He loved fast cars, rubbing elbows with local celebrities and politicians, and sipping beer poured to the very top—no head, as he would famously declare. His humor, routines, and quirks were part of his charm. He took great pride in his sons’ accomplishments and proudly wore their university gear whenever he could.

Later in life, Allen moved to Chicago and expanded his circle of love and laughter alongside his second wife, Joan. Together for 30 years, they built a blended family that brought him profound joy. He was a familiar figure at his favorite pub, Kitty O’Shea’s, a loyal attendee of his condo’s infamous Thirsty Thursdays, a staunch supporter of the Chicago Symphony, and a recognizable runner along Michigan Avenue—in neon pink jogging shorts that were impossible to forget.

Though he is no longer with us in person, his booming voice, sharp opinions, and boundless energy remain deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

He was never quiet, never ordinary, and never without a statement. Allen filled his 86 years with stories, laughter, and unforgettable moments, and passed away in the loving and comforting presence of Joan.