Glennis Jean (Allen) Buehning

Glennis was born in Wolsey, South Dakota and lived her first 6 years on a beautiful farm on a hill. She enjoyed lots of freedom to roam and play while her parents and two older brothers maintained the farm. Due to devastating drought in the 1930s the family moved to Oregon, eventually settling in Salem.

As a child, she loved being active: climbing trees, roller skating, and riding her bicycle - fast! Reading and music were also important parts of her young life. She spoke often of the fun she had making music with her school friends.

Glennis earned her Bachelor of Music degree from Willamette University in Salem. She then completed a Masters of Music, followed by a Masters of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of Oregon in Eugene. She married her husband Walter, who was also a musician. Upon completing her education, they started a family.

Glennis shared her musical talents and joy of music in many ways. For several years she had a private teaching studio, teaching both piano and voice. She accompanied for dance classes and vocal studios, sang for weddings and other occasions, and participated in numerous choirs.

Shortly after moving to Calgary in 1968, Glennis was hired at the University of Calgary Library and worked as a music cataloguer for 20 years.

Through these working years she continued to sing and play. She performed in 27 operas with the Calgary Opera Chorus, and was a dedicated member of her church, offering her gifts as a pianist and choir member.

Retirement allowed her more time for her love of reading, sewing for her grandchildren, attending musical events and the occasional travel adventure and visit to family.

Glennis was a loving, devoted wife, mother and grandmother, and a consistent, caring life-long friend to many.

She will be remembered for her endlessly giving nature. She quietly lived her faith in service to love, and was unfailing in her kindness, friendship and strength.

She is survived by her son Karl; daughters Laura and Marilyn; grandchildren Amy and Jason Melnychuk; nieces Sheila Yeoman, Kathy Davies, Cindy Thayer; and nephews Greg, Jeff and David Allen.

She was predeceased by Walter, her husband of 65 years; her parents, Guy and Bessie Allen; and her brothers Hewie and Francis Allen.

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations being made in Glennis’ memory to the Calgary Philharmonic Foundation.