Glen Wilson Osborn

Glen Wilson Osborn, 99, a veteran of World War II and longtime resident of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away August 29, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, laughter and cherished memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Glen was born May 23, 1924, to the late Vern and Eva Osborn in the backwoods of Amarugia, a source of many legends in Cass County, Missouri. After he graduated from Archie High School, he left his home on the farm and joined the U.S. Navy. Glen’s Naval service was unique for a seaman third class. He served in both the Pacific and Atlantic fleets. In the Pacific Fleet, he earned a Purple Heart while serving on the ill-fated U.S.S. St Lo during the Battle for Leyte Gulf. The U.S.S. St Lo was the first aircraft carrier in WWII to be sunk by a Japanese kamikaze. While in the Atlantic Fleet, he served on the U.S.S. Providence and performed clandestine missions when offshore in Italy.

After leaving the service, he married Martha (Dolly) Briles with whom he had four sons; Richard, Ronald, Robert and Randall Osborn. During this time he became the Meat Department Manager for Safeway Grocery store, where he later retired from. Glen's life was marked by his activeness in the community. He was a member of the Jaycees, a master mason in Mason Lodge, a scout leader, warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, flotilla commander in the Coast Guard Auxiliary, avid square dancer in the Silver Shoes, and chaplain in the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Alexander Majors Chapter.

Glen's joyful laugh, commitment to family and friends held no boundary. He tirelessly volunteered his time and made a significant impact in the lives of many. His dedication to his friends, family and country was an inspiration to all who knew him. Glen seemed most proud of his promotion to honorary Admiral in the Navy through the help of the St. Lo Association and the Naval History and Heritage Command at the age of 97. Glen had a love for collecting various items and working with his hands. He spent countless hours making frames, completing landscaping projects and teaching his many trades to anyone willing to learn. He shared these passions with friends and family, creating lasting bonds and treasured memories.

Family was of the utmost importance to Glen and he will be deeply missed by his sons and his current spouse, Beth Osborn; her son, Andrew Coons; his wife, Lisa and their children; Ethan, Maven and Silvey. Beth’s daughters, Melanie Coons, Rachell Aldrich and Sarah Axon; her husband, Mike and their children Joseph, Skylar and Christian. His brothers, Donald and Melvin and sister, Alice. He often gathered with friends and family for special occasions and traditions, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that will be remembered fondly. Glen was also preceded in death by his first wife, Martha (Dolly); his son, Robert Osborn; brothers, Ross and John Osborn and sister, Velda Troth.

Glen had a wonderful sense of humor, memorable laugh, and zest for life that brightened the days of everyone around him. He had a way of making even the most ordinary moments feel extraordinary; his joyfulness was contagious. The world has lost a remarkable man, but the memories he created will live on forever in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, laughter, kindness, and community will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.

The family will receive friends Wednesday night September 6th, 2023, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home, located at 11924 E. 47th St., Kansas City, Missouri 64133. There will also be a rosary service for Glen starting at 5:30pm Wednesday before the visitation. Friends and family are invited to gather to honor his memory and share stories of the wonderful life he lived. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 A.M. on Thursday September 7th, 2023, at St. Bernadette Parish, located 9020 E. 51st Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri 64133. Interment with Military Honors following the Mass at Brooking Cemetery, Raytown, Missouri.

In his memory, you can send flowers or plants to the Funeral Home. Glen's departure leaves a void that will never be filled, but the love and memories he shared with us will remain forever in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Glen. You will be dearly missed.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McGilleySheil.com for the Osborn family.