By Rebecca Goodman
The Cincinnati Enquirer

HARRISON - Harrison is a close-knit community. People who grew up here come back to live, and neighbors help one another out.

Edward Allen was such a person.

A standout basketball player for Harrison more than 40 years ago, he played on the legendary undefeated team of 1960-61.

"He was so proud of that," said his wife, Ann. "Men are funny. They relive all those old games."

After college, Mr. Allen returned to Harrison High to teach and coach the sport he loved.

He died Monday of kidney failure at Bethesda North Hospital at age 61.

While Harrison lost one of its most beloved citizens, his death stands to benefit another Harrisonian.

Mr. Allen's wife has set up a memorial fund in her husband's name.

"We're going to give (any money received) to a young person in Harrison who has a kidney disease and is on dialysis," she said.

That person is Steve Rolfes, 33. "It's a terrible thing. He'll be on dialysis forever," Mrs. Allen said.

Mr. Allen held a bachelor's degree from Miami University and a master's from Xavier University.

He taught physical education, health and history and coached basketball at Harrison High until his retirement 10 years ago.

In addition to his wife of 37 years, survivors include a son, Mark Allen of Kenwood, and a grandson.

Visitation is 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday at the First Baptist Church, Broadway at Hill Street in Harrison, followed by the funeral service. Burial will be in the Glen Haven Cemetery in Harrison.

Memorials: American Kidney Foundation, c/o John C. Brater Funeral Home, 201 S. Vine St., Harrison, OH 45030.

E-mail rgoodman@enquirer.com