Michael Donald Glenn died unexpectedly on Thursday January 16, 2013 at the age of 66 in Springfield, Missouri. He was born September 12, 1946 to Viola Mae “Pat” (Patterson) Glenn and Donald Joseph Glenn in Columbus, Ohio.Michael received his Master of Arts: Librarianship and Informational Management from the University of Colorado, Denver in 1980 after receiving his Bachelor of Arts: Political Science and History from Metropolitan State College, Denver, Colorado in 1976. He also attended Dean College in Franklin, Massachusetts. Michael worked for the National Archives and Records Service from 1977 to 1981 before joining the staff at the Springfield-Greene County Library Service and becoming their first local history librarian. Michael worked at the Midtown Carnegie Branch until the opening of the Library Center when it opened in 1999 as the Manager of Local History and Genealogy. Michael demonstrated a keen awareness of the long-lasting importance of historical materials and established policies that helped preserve significant historical and rare materials for the future. His willingness to share his wealth of knowledge contributed greatly to the efforts of Springfield-area archivists. At the same time, he helped teach the everyday researcher and story lover about Ozarks history, lore and families. August 31, 2012 was proclaimed Michael Glenn Day by the City of Springfield when he retired after 31 years of service to the library. His colleagues and friends knew him for his wicked sense of humor and bizarre adventure stories. In his youth Michael enjoyed both downhill skiing and waterskiing. Michael was a music lover and avid reader enjoying both fiction and nonfiction. He loved to share his favorite books and authors with friends and family and became a mentor to many.
He is survived by his three sisters and their families: Lindell and Francis McDougall and their two sons Michael and Peter of Franklin, Massachusetts: Leslie and Daniel Owens of Cazenovia, New York and their three children Jocelyn, Kyle and Adrien, and their two grandchildren Bella and Nathan: Susan Glenn of Cazenovia, New York. He was preceded in death by both his parents, his cousin David Glenn of Cleveland, Ohio, and his brother-in-law Allan Robinson (husband of Susan Glenn). His second family – his colleagues, associates and patrons of the library, will miss him.Having worked in Springfield for 31 years Michael became an expert in and developed a passion for local history. Donations may be made to “The Library Foundation for Local History Fund” in honor of Michael Donald Glenn.A Celebration of Life reception will be held on Thursday, January 24 at Coyote’s Adobe Café & Bar, 1742 S. Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, MO.Online condolences may be made to: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com