Glenn R. Thayer

Glenn Roland Thayer, a loving husband, devoted father and adventurer at heart, peacefully passed away on March 17, 2025 at the age of 97. Born in 1928, Glenn grew up during the Great Depression, which shaped his life and instilled qualities that would guide him throughout his life; resilience, frugality, an appreciation of the simplest things, and a strong work ethic, to name a few.

His humble beginnings in Russell MA with his 7 siblings were the source of many a great tale told of the escapades carried out by Glenn and his brothers and sisters. As a teen, he and his brothers spent many a day on their old Indian and Harley motorcycles....also the source of many tales told.

At the tender age of 17, Glenn embarked on his first great journey by joining the Merchant Marines. He fearlessly set sail and explored the vast oceans, eager to experience the world beyond the confines of his hometown. While with the Merchant Marines he found himself delivering supplies to the front lines at the Battle of The Bulge. Glenn's thirst for adventure led him to join the Navy Reserve, then the Air Force in the early 1950's, where he continued to serve his country with honor and dedication.

Glenn's favorite military story was his 4 month assignment at Fletcher Ice Island at the North Pole, "T-3", where in 1953, during the height of the Cold War, he and 8 others were based manning a weather station. He and his comrades lived in an underground shelter enduring the harsh conditions of the Arctic with its 80 degree below temps. It was Glenn's job to maintain all of the equipment and vehicles on the ice island as well as the electricity. He also maintained the runway for incoming supply carrying planes and told of chasing polar bears away while plowing with a Snow-Cat. He exhibited bravery and resilience, contributing to the scientific endeavors conducted there.

Glenn's service to his country led him to be stationed with NATO forces in Izmir, Turkey for 3 years. Upon returning to the United States, Glenn and his beloved wife, Nancy, settled in Palmer, MA. He continued his military service in the Air Force Reserves for 21 years as a vehicle maintenance supervisor with the 439th ABG. and retired as a MSgt. He was a dedicated electrician for Tambrands for 30 years.

Glenn, as well as all of his brothers, was known for his uncanny mechanical ability. He could fix anything that was broken or create/invent a replacement. He could normally be found with a screwdriver in hand, tinkering in his garage. His favorite hobby was restoring old Corvettes which he would purchase at junk yards and piece by piece, restore them to pristine condition. In more recent years he enjoyed planting, harvesting, eating and sharing green peas from his extensive pea garden. If he couldn't be found, we knew to look for him on his knees amongst the peas.

Besides his father and mother, Howard and Gertrude, he was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth, and brothers Roger, Leigh and Harland. He leaves his cherished wife of 73 years, Nancy, his son Mark and wife Claudia, his daughter Rhonda and husband David, sisters Janet Maslar of Sarasota, FL, and Connie Herman and brother Richard and wife Betty of Russell. He leaves 4 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Glenn Thayer will be remembered as a remarkable individual who embraced life's adventures with an indomitable spirit. His legacy will live on through the memories he created, the values he instilled, and the love he shared with all those fortunate enough to have known him. As we mourn his loss, let us celebrate the extraordinary life he lived and find solace in the knowledge that his spirit will forever remain in our hearts. A memorial service to honor Glenn will be held privately at a later date. Donations in Glenn's name can be made to The Baystate Hospice.