Rashid Malik Allen

Rashid 'Rok Allen' was born on April 29th, 1970, in Portland, Oregon, to Veta Granville and Kenneth Allen, bringing a whole lot of spice and joy into the world. Rashid had some serious skills - he could slow-cook ribs to perfection and also knew how to bring the heat with his personality. With his mouth-watering cooking, infectious laughter, and loyalty that could rival a Pit Bull, he gave selflessly to those around him. As a grill master extraordinaire, Rashid's cooking was more than just delicious; it was a legendary experience that brought people together like a foodie block party. His plates were always loaded high with love, care, and enough food for a small army, whether he was catering to organizations, cooking for family gatherings, or just feeding the neighborhood crew. When Rashid showed up with a meal, you knew you were in for a treat that would last for days, or at least until the leftovers ran out. As a devoted dad, Rashid played a starring role in raising Ardnecia, Jaysean, and Jennasey, creating memories that will be etched in their hearts forever, like the time he... well, let's just say he was there for all the good times. He was the kind of dad who would make them LOL, provide for their every need, and shower them with love, because that's what kind of dad he was. Even when they were apart, his love remained strong, always checking in and expressing his love. When his oldest son, Izayiah, got married in 2021, Rashid was overcome with emotion, shedding tears of joy - a rare display of vulnerability from a man who typically kept it together like a pro. Family was always his top priority, and being there for life's milestones was paramount. So, when he got to welcome his grandbabies to the world, he wouldn't have missed it for anything. The blessing of holding his grandson Crew in his arms before passing was a moment of pure love and pride for him, and we're pretty sure he might have whispered 'That's Him!' in approval. Rashid gave like nobody's business, whether through cooking, volunteering, or just being a listening ear. His presence was like a warm hug, reassuring and generous. He was the kind of guy who would give you his last dollar, cook for the block party, and show up with a smile that could light up a room, or a stadium, for that matter. His energy was contagious, and his impact will never be forgotten, mainly because people will be talking about his legendary cooking and personality for years to come. Though he had six siblings, Rashid's circle extended far beyond blood ties; he loved his cousins, childhood friends, and neighbors like family, and they loved him right back. He was the dependable friend, the loyal cousin, and the guy who laughed loud and loved even louder. A die-hard San Francisco 49ers fan, Rashid lived and breathed the team spirit, and if you ever needed someone to watch the game with, he was your guy. He had a special spot in his heart for Dominoes, Old School Soul Music, and '90s West Coast Hip-Hop, the good stuff. His favorite sayings, like 'That's Him!' after a delicious meal or 'Leonard!' to get a laugh, will remain etched in the memories of those who knew him. Rashid's heart was a sanctuary of love and acceptance, where everyone was welcome and valued, kind of like a food truck that never runs out of sauce. He didn't care about titles or status; he cared about people and making sure they were fed, protected, and respected, in that order. Though he may no longer be with us physically, his spirit, love, and laughter will continue to inspire and uplift us, mainly because his family and friends are still cooking up a storm in his honor. He is survived by his children Izayiah Allen, Rahmeela Allen, Ardnecia Allen, Jaysean Allen, and Jennasey Allen, his grandchildren Harper Allen and Crew Allen, his siblings Montreal Granville Medina Allen, Jahmeela Allen, Asia Allen, Yusuf Alires, and Walter Kelsaw, his mother Veta Shamsud-Din, and a host of extended family and friends who will carry his legacy forward with love, and probably a few secret recipes.