Cornelius was born in Detroit, Michigan to Claude and Genora Allen. He graudated from Northern High School and completed a series of drafting courses. Cornelius married Almeda Dantzler on March 7, 1959, to this union were born daughter Sabrena Thompson and son Cornelius Allen in addition to raising Alphonso Dantzler, Jeanette Hall and Henry Dantzler.

Cork retired from Rotary Tool and Die in 2002. Cork was an advid sports fan, football being one of his favorites. You knew exactly where to find him on any given Sunday afternoon during football season. His favorite team was The New Orlean Saints and he was a Labron James superfan! He looked forward to watching with his Son, Grandson and his Brother, Herb. He was also one of the most generous people you could have known. If he had it, you could get it. He loved his family and his wife's cooking. They were two peas in a pod. He took care of her and she took care of him. He loved us all, especially his favorite Grandson C3. 

Cornelius was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Wilfred Allen, Claude Allen and Gilbert Allen, sister Genora Ransom and son Alphonso Dantzler. He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife Almeda Allen, children Sabrena Thompson, Cornelius Allen, Jeanette Hall and Henry Dantzler, grandson Cornelius Allen III. Brother Herbert Allen, sisters, Jeanette Moore (AB), Lorraine Scott and Joyce Jones (Donald Jones) and all of his loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.