Glenn S. DeFrancesco

Glenn S. DeFrancesco was born October 5, 1931 in Hazleton, Pennsylvania to Sylvester and Susan (nee Zelinko) DeFrancesco. Glenn graduated from West Hazleton High School in 1949 and was a back-up point guard on their state championship basketball team in 1949. He formed lasting bonds with his fellow state champ teammates and spoke fondly and often of his lifelong friends from WHHS (Danny, Larry, Probie, Eddie, Evelyn, Joanie, and Nancy).

In 1950, he enlisted in the Marines and was later honorably discharged. Glenn married Nancy Schad, also of Hazleton, in 1956 and they had two children, Eric in 1958 (Mary) and Lisa in 1965 (Rodney Ownby). In 1971, to escape the cold Pennsylvania weather, the family moved to Orlando, Florida. In Orlando, Glenn was employed as a vending parts manager for Pepsi Cola Bottling Group for 26 years until his retirement. Glenn was remarried in 1977 to Cleo Ozbun and was stepfather to her 4 children – Mark, Vickie, Dawn and Doug.

Glenn was a proud grandfather to Lisa’s two children, Bryce and Alexis Ownby and the many grandchildren he shared with Cleo. He had a great sense of humor and was always quick with a joke, or a sharp-witted comeback. True to his Catholic faith, he never missed a day of church, rain or shine. He loved taking care of his home and keeping things in good order, with no clutter… he’d say, “If you haven’t used something in the last year, you never will, so throw it away!” He enjoyed taking care of his lawn, and hearing compliments on its appearance after a fresh mowing and edging. He relished staying busy, being constantly on the move, and having some event to look forward to… he was always warm, outgoing, and gregarious to family, friend, or stranger, a joy to be around, especially on holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. Even in the later years of his life and in declining health, he still dressed up for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

He was an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for over 40 years and enjoyed fellowship with many of the members. He was always on the go and loved driving and getting new cars every couple of years. He was a loyal friend and loving father and grandfather. He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will be missed every day.