Bob Allen, Iconic Houston Sports Broadcaster, Dies of Cancer

HOUSTON, TX -- Bob Allen, an iconic sports broadcaster in Houston for more than 40 years, died late Wednesday after a year-long battle of T-Cell lymphoma.

Allen, 70, began his television career in 1974 at KTRK-TV, where he quickly was named sports director.

A native Houstonian and graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, Allen spent 39 years in front of the cameras and interviewed well-known sports figures, such as Boxing legends Muhammad Ali, and George Foreman; racing champion A.J. Foyt; local NFL heroes Earl Campbell and Bum Phillips, and Baseball Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan.

In January 2013, Allen left the sports desk at KTRK, and took on broadcasting duties at KHOU in April.

In June 2015, Allen was diagnosed with cancer and took a leave of absence from KHOU to undergo chemotherapy for T-Cell lymphoma.

In February, Allen announced on his Facebook page that he was in remission.

“I feel like I’m on the downhill run,” Allen wrote.

His family said Allen peacefully died about 11 p.m.

His KHOU family released the following statement after the announcement of Allen’s death:

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague Bob Allen. Bob was a local news icon, a true original who covered Houston sports in his own unique style for more than 40 years. He created a strong and lasting bond with sports fans because he covered the games from their perspective. Bob had the courage to tell it like it is. In addition to sports, Bob was passionate about community service. He was a longtime supporter of many local non-profits, especially those which benefited children. We consider ourselves fortunate to have been able to work alongside Bob and learn so much from him during his tenure at KHOU 11. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the entire Houston community."

Allen leaves behind a daughter and a brother.
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