Jack V Glessner Obituary (2025)

Jack Glessner, age 92, of Yakima, Washington, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, at Prosser Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 30, 1932, in Seattle, Washington, Jack met the love of his life, Mary Lou Metz, in high school, where they were crowned homecoming king and queen. The two married shortly after graduation, and Jack began his service in the U.S. Air Force. Jack was a proud Korean War veteran, honored with the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal with two bronze stars. He served active duty for eight years. During the first four years of service he specialized as a Ground Radio Operator. He re-enlisted for another four years, where he then specialized in Autopilot System Repair. Throughout his career in the Air Force, he climbed the ranks to become a Staff Sergeant. He and Mary Lou, and their growing family moved from base to base, before settling in the Yakima area in 1965. Jack and Mary Lou shared 69 beautiful years of marriage, before her passing in 2021. After his military service, Jack worked at Safeway for over 25 years, before starting his own hardwood flooring business, which he ran for many years. Known for his warmth, humor, and generosity, Jack was affectionately called "Dad" by many in the community. He had a heart of gold and was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back. Jack was one of six siblings and is survived by his twin brother, Jim Glessner. He is also survived by his children, Jon Glessner, Jeff Glessner, Gordy Glessner, Julie (Glessner) Brashear, Gail (Glessner) Deeds, and Ruby (Glessner) Smith, 17 grandchildren, and over 20 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou, and his two sons, George and Jay and granddaughter, Payton. Jack found his greatest joy surrounded by family and friends. His backyard patio, lovingly known as "Jack's Bar," was the center of countless cherished memories, with a fire pit that always burned, no matter the season. That fire, much like Jack's spirit, never went out. A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 1:00pm, at Holy Rosary Cemetery in Moxee, WA. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com