Mary J. Allen, age 56, of Poulsbo, died Oct. 15 after a three-year battle with cancer.

She was born Feb. 10, 1947, in Seattle to James and Maxine Horning. She moved with her family to Bainbridge Island, where she met and married David Allen.

In her early teen years, she took up the sport of archery and went out traveling the competition circuit with her parents. With a sharp eye and excellent aim, she became the national archery champion in her age group.

She enjoyed travel, spending time with her family, and animals. She was known to sometimes take in a stray cat or dog.

Her love of cooking inspired Mary and her daughter Amy to open Allen’s Waterfront Deli in Poulsbo. She was proud of the family operation, and enjoyed sharing both recipes and friendship with the deli’s patrons.

She is survived by husband David Allen of Poulsbo; daughter Amy Allen of Poulsbo; son Andrew Allen of Belfair; mother Maxine (James) Donald of Silverdale; and brother William (Sue) Horning of Lilliwaup. She was preceded in death by her father in November 2000.

Private services will be held, with a celebration of life to be held at a later date.

Memorials can be made to the University of Washington, Division of Oncology, UW School of Medicine, P.O. Box 356460, Seattle, WA 98195.