Crystal Falls- Allen Ray "Tags" Ponchaud, 77, of Crystal Falls MI., passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday August 18, 2024

Allen was born November 25, 1946, in Crystal Falls, MI., to the late Raymond and Bernice(Johnson) Ponchaud.

Allen grew up in Crystal Falls, MI., graduating from Forest Park High School in 1965. After high school, he enlisted in the Army. He fought for his country in the Vietnam War, where he obtained the ranking of Staff Sgt (E6) and finished his military career as a member of the US Army Special Security Group. At that time, he was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii where he met the love of his life, Nikki Stockus. They were married a year later in 1969, while still in Hawaii. In 1970, they moved to Milwaukee, WI. before finally returning home to Crystal Falls, Mich., two years later.

Allen enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family, gardening with his wife, and wood working. What he enjoyed most was attending his grandchildren's sporting events and activities. He was always photographing and capturing their accomplishments as they grew up. He was also a member of the Crystal Falls VFW, where he spent time as the District Commander.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Nikki Ponchaud; sons, Mark Ponchaud, Michael (Terra) Ponchaud; daughter, Wendy (John) Lovato; brothers James Ponchaud, Charlie Ponchaud; grandchildren, Tyler (Skylah) Lovato, Amber (Jake) DeNell, Ayden Ponchaud, and Nevaeh Ponchaud.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Ponchaud; Bernice (Johnson) Ponchaud.

Military honors will be held 2:00 p.m. on Saturday September 14, 2024, at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Crystal Falls.

Friends may leave condolences and tributes for Allen's family online at www. jacobsfuneralhomes.com

The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Iron Mountain, Mich., to honor Allen's legacy of life.