Glen Curtis Gann

Glen Curtis Gann, lovingly known to many as Curtis, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on January 10, 1940, Curtis lived a life defined not by wealth or recognition, but by kindness, integrity, generosity, and an unwavering love for others.

Curtis was preceded in death by his parents, Monroe Gann and Edith Gann, and by his beloved wives, Varinia Gann and Beulah Gann.

He is survived by his daughter, Twala Gann; his stepsons, Richard Cates and Kenneth Cates; his stepdaughter, Teresa King; and countless friends who became family.

Curtis possessed a quiet strength that never demanded attention, yet somehow made everyone around him feel safe. He was a steady and dependable presence, no matter what life brought. During times of uncertainty or hardship, he was always there—with unwavering love, gentle reassurance, and the quiet confidence that somehow everything would be okay.

He was one of the gentlest, kindest, and most loving souls anyone could hope to know. Quick to make friends wherever he went, Curtis never spoke poorly of others, even when they may have deserved it. Instead, he chose to see the good in people and recognize their potential rather than dwell on their shortcomings. Everyone he encountered was treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Simply put, Curtis loved people, and they loved him in return.

His joyful, curious, and adventurous spirit carried him through a lifetime of experiences. From working aboard ships and traveling the world as a young man, to cross-country family vacations, to later enjoying a simple trip through Home Depot with Richard, Curtis found joy in seeing new places, meeting people, and experiencing life. He embraced every opportunity with gratitude and wonder.

Though quiet by nature, Curtis had a delightful sense of humor that often caught people by surprise. With a mischievous smile and a twinkle in his eye, he could deliver the perfect joke at just the right moment, bringing laughter to those around him.

Behind his gentle demeanor was a sharp, analytical mind that loved solving problems and understanding how things worked. He genuinely enjoyed his career and delayed retirement until it was no longer possible because his work gave him purpose, fulfillment, and lifelong friendships. His work family meant the world to him, and he cared deeply about the people he worked alongside.

His love of fixing and building extended well beyond the workplace. If something was broken, it became his next project. Looking back, he may have taken on more than a few ambitious home improvement projects, but they brought him great satisfaction. He also enjoyed gardening, yard work, collecting coins and stamps, tackling endless “honey-do” lists, and staying active both mentally and physically.

One of Curtis’ greatest defining qualities was his extraordinary generosity. He gave freely of his time, energy, wisdom, resources, and, most importantly, his love. Sometimes he gave more than he should, consistently placing the needs of others ahead of his own. His family was everything to him—but family extended far beyond blood. Anyone fortunate enough to be welcomed into his life became part of his circle, and once you were there, you knew you were loved.

Many people measure a successful life by the material possessions left behind. Curtis leaves a far richer inheritance.

His legacy is a roadmap for how to live with grace and purpose. Through his daily example, he taught those around him to love without conditions, give without expecting anything in return, practice humility, kindness, respect, and integrity, encourage curiosity and hard work, find joy in serving others, and always make people feel seen, valued, and cared for.

Although his laughter, wisdom, gentle spirit, and comforting presence will be deeply missed, his influence lives on in the lives of those he touched. We will carry him forward in the way we love our families, welcome strangers, choose kindness, pursue excellence, and face life’s challenges with courage, compassion, and grace.

Curtis was, quite simply, an extraordinary man whose greatest accomplishment was the way he loved others. His life reminds us that true greatness is found not in what we accumulate, but in the lives we touch.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

In lieu of flowers, we ask that anyone wishing to honor him in some way either purchases a plant to enjoy in their personal home/garden or that they make a donation of time or resources to a local animal rescue or Alzheimer's support foundation.