Glenn O’ Rourke of Exeter, passed away at LHSC- Victoria Hospital on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at the age of 73. He is survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Mike and Louise of Spirit River, Alberta, Don and Julia of Dashwood, Wayne and Barb of Chepstow, Pat of Khiva, Joe and Betty of Atwood, Gerard and Sandy of Kitchener and sister and brother-in-law Mary and Jim MacGregor of Exeter. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was the son of the late Dennis and Clare O’Rourke. Predeceased by a sisters-in-law Gwen O’Rourke (2019) and Phyllis O’Rourke (1996).
Glenn was born on November 16, 1946 in Stephen Township, Huron County. Glenn lived in Mount Forest from October 1965 until he moved to Exeter July 2015. He served in the Ontario Provincial Police at Mount Forest for 31 years. He was also involved in many volunteering positions in Mount Forest during those years. Included were assisting coaching in minor hockey, 35 years with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and positions on the Executive of the fast ball, slowpitch and broomball leagues. He also volunteered at the curling club, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Mount Forest Archives and Museum, the Mount Forest Fireworks Festival, and positions with the Township of Wellington North. Glenn was a member of the Exeter Legion, The Exeter Golf Club, and the Exeter Curling Club. Cremation has taken place.
A celebration of life will be held at the Exeter Curling Club, 205 Riverside Drive, on Saturday, February 1st from 1-4 PM. Haskett Funeral Home, Exeter (519-235-1220) entrusted with arrangements.
Private family interment Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery. Donations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron, Exeter Legion, or the South Huron Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Keith Marsland
I just noticed Glenn’s obituary and wanted to add my appreciation to him – he spent many
years giving service to the Big Brother Association in North Wellington.
He was such a great contributor – always willing to assist – he was also very friendly
and a down to earth person.
Keith Marsland – former Executive Director of Big Brothers of Guelph and Wellington County
Francis Daulby
Hi Glenn, it’s Frank Daulby here. You are in my thoughts today. Your wide tooth smile ever present and engaging, revealing a great understanding of life than most and within it a wink, revealing you are in on life’s joke. You embodied all that is good in man. We are each lesser for your loss, greater and fortunate to have known you.
You have once again managed to sneak out of life’s party without saying goodbye, so I’ll say it for you.
Frank and Joan Daulby
Mt.St. Louis
Rob Avery
Just heard about Glenn this morning – Very sorry to hear about his passing – I met him over the years with the Big Brothers bowling and banquet. Always very positive, friendly and always had a smile !!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Rob
Leanne Dietrich
Each winter I looked forward to Glenn’s post-Christmas visit over a few games of solo at Mom & Dad’s farm. He was always interested in hearing what we had been up to over the past year, and just so easy to talk to. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends – but judging from the fantastic slide show you’ve put together, he has left behind some truly wonderful memories!
Cynthia Beyer
So very saddened by the news of Glenn’s death. Our memories of this wonderful man are many.
51 years of laughter ,golf games , vacations , ball games ,and sharing your garden…!
You will be missed but never forgotten,we will keep you alive in our stories and our hearts,forever .
Our condolences to the family.
Sincerely Harv & Cynthia Beyer
Jan Lemon
I worked with Glenn, during his last years in Mt. Forest, in the communications center. He was approachable in any situation, and knowledgeable in our work. It was my pleasure to have worked with him. He was one of the good guys.
OPP Canine Unit
On behalf of the Ontario Provincial Canine Unit, we wish to send our heartfelt condolences to the O’Rourke family.
Glenn played an important part in the development and proud history of our Canine program.
Teresa Patterson
Condolences to the O’Rourke family.
I met Glenn when I was a new officer with the OPP, and I still remember how kind and patient he was.
Rest in Peace, Glenn.
Don Stanley
It was a sad sad day when I heard of Glenn’s sudden passing. Knowing that he is gone but most of all I will not be able to see him again. Our friendship started in Mt. Forest when Glenn was a Cadet on the O.P.P. and I was a radio operator until joining the Force in 1966 and was stationed in Markdale. We had many holiday trips together and lots of golf and laughs. He was a brother I never had. Our condolences….Don and Karen Stanley.
Richard Lemaich
Glenn, we, your family and your many friends, are very sad that you left us much too soon. My condolences to Glenn’s family and also to his many friends. Glenn, you and I were friends for many years and by being in your company whether on a golf course, driving together or having a beer to celebrate another round of golf completed and making plans for the next get together at the 19th hole there was never a dull moment. It was always a pleasure spending time with you, sharing stories and enjoying your hearty laugh. I along with your family and many friends will miss those occasions and seeing your engaging smile. Rest In Peace my friend! Richard Lemaich
Debb Cameron
To all of Glenns family…We knew Glenn for many many years. He worked with my father, and Daryll and he were on the Mega Bats slow pitch team. Such a great guy. Please know you are all in our thoughts and most certainly our prayers. Rest peacefully horse shoe buddy. Sincerely Daryll and Debb Cameron
Miriam Long
Sincere sympathy to Glenn’s family. Glenn was a friend of my husband, Wally Long. Wally was a dispatcher with the O.P.P. in Mount Forest from January 1966 until his retirement in 1996, which was at the same time as Glenn’s. Their joint retirement party, at the Harriston Legion, was well attended, since both of them were very well liked. In retirement, they enjoyed playing golf together, and also with others, at several golf courses, within driving distance of home, during the summer months.
Glenn was a great friend and golf buddy for many years. He honoured us by agreeing to be a pallbearer for Wally in April of 2004. I pray they may now see each other again.
God bless Glenn and all his family.
Sincerely, Miriam Long
Sally Desjardine
To the O’Rourke family
I was saddened to hear of Glenn’s passing. Thinking of you all during this time of sorrow.
Sally (Dietrich) Desjardine
Jerry Barry
We are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of cousin Glenn.
He understood and practiced kindness and helpfulness toward people with a smile.
He will be surely missed and God rest his soul.
Julie and Jerry Barry Family
Joseph & Diane Kaak
Dear Family,
Our sympathy in the loss of your loved one.
Joe & Diane Kaak
Carrie Parsons
Pat and family
Mary, Jim and family
Our sincere sympathy as you once again experience such a great loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Greg and Carrie Parsons
Doug and Phyllis Johnson
We have so may memories of good times with Glenn, both in Mt Forest and Exeter. He was a true friend to everyone and will be remembered as a special person.
There is a new star in the sky. Rest in Peace.
Yvonne Zehr
Glenn’s sudden passing marks the end of a very special and extraordinary friendship that began in a time of greatest need. I was the little girl Glenn and Trapper found on a very cold dark night March 16, 1981. I will be forever grateful for what Glenn accomplished that night. I treasure the many memories of times spent with Glenn in the years since, especially the last time we as a family were together with Glenn and some of his siblings in March 2019. My thoughts and prayers are with the O’Rourke family in this time of great loss. My deepest sympathies, Yvonne Zehr.
Nelson & Verna Jantzi
We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Glenn. We are forever grateful to Glenn and Trapper for the role they played in finding our daughter, Yvonne. Since that memorable occasion 38 years ago, we treasure the memories we have of the many times we enjoyed with Glenn. Our deepest sympathies to the O’ Rourke family. Nelson and Verna Jantzi
Ray Ducharme
To the O’Rourke family I was saddened to here of Glens passing I always will remember that great smile/
I wish to extend my sincere sympathy.
Ray Ducharme
Diane and Doug McLellan
To Glenn’s family. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. Glenn was a wonderful neighbour from 1979 – 2009. He always had time to chat and had the biggest smile. May you Rest In Peace. You were an amazing person who did so much for the Mount Forest community. Blessings!
Eugene & Jean Guenther
A great friend over the years. His love of his German Shepherd held a place in our hearts. Great times in the old days, always a smile when we met again and again. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his family. Eugene & Jean
Jim and Betty De Block
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our condolences to all the O’Rourke family.
Sue and Eric Gerber
Dear Rollings Family
We send you our sincere condolences for your loss.
Sue and Eric Gerber
Michael Byrne
To the One Rourke Family
I worked with Glen for few years and spent many days a Pike Lake and winter nights at the curling club.
Glen always had a smile on his face and a big hello when you met him. God speed my friend and hope you get a round or 2 with our friend Wally.
Mike Byrne
Howard and Yvonne Hendrick
Sincere condolences to the entire O’Rourke family. Cherish all your memories of Glenn and he will remain close until you meet again.
Howard and Yvonne Hendrick
Richard and Wendy Jennison
Condolences to the O’Rourke family.
Margaret A Brintnell
My condolence to all of Glenn’s family. Wonderful caring man as we see by all the comments. He was always friendly would stop for a conversation when out walking. Sure loved his gardening & did great job. So many meaningful accomplishments over the yrs. Good deeds. All of you will have so many wonderful family memories now and in days to come.
Margaret Brintnell (Neighbour on William St.)
Frederick John Hoehn
I was so fortunate to have had Glenn for a neighbour and a friend lots of laughs together will be missed for sure.
Wille & Linda O'Rourke
To the Family of Glen O’Rourke:
Willie and I along with our family were saddened by the sudden passing of Glen. He was our cousin, and friend. We had many visits throughout the years. He lived his life to the fullest, and we will cherish the memories of the good times forever.
With Sympathy,
Willie and Linda
Gordon and Joan Campbell
The O’Rourke family has lost a stalwart member. Glenn was a wonderful person and we can honor him by
carrying on some of the kindness he showed toward so many. He was always a cousin that was a presence.
May he rest in peace and receive that rewards for a life well lived. Condolences to all the O’Rourke family.
Although in California, we are with you in thought and prayer.
Scott & Mary Burton
We send our sympathy to the O’ Rourke family to recall many happy times we have spent with them.
Glenn will be missed from many activities in the area.
Remembered with a smile.
Linda Pehlke
I too am shocked and saddened to hear of Glenn’s sudden passing. He was a great guy. Quiet but to the point if you ticked him off.
I will always remember his feasts of pork hocks and saurkraut! Years ago he and his brothers called themselves the “boar” brothers…..Glenn boar, Joe boar, etc. I’m sure “Melvin” found it amusing too.
To the O’Rourke family, you have my deepest condolences. Glenn will always be remembered.
Tom and Jennifer Bowman (former neighbours of the Atwood O's)
We were very saddened when we heard of Glenn’s passing. He will definitely be missed by his whole family. It has been a very difficult time for the whole extended O’Rourke family and we think of you often, sending hugs and prayers for the strength to get through these difficult times.
Judy Christensen
My sincere sympathy to Joe and Betty and all the O’Rourke Family in the loss of a Glenn. He was a great guy and will be missed by many.
Beth Lovell
So sorry to hear of Glenn’s passing. My sympathies to the O’Rourke family. Hugs to all.
June E Morenz
My deepest sympathy to all the O’Rourke family. I met Glenn 5 years ago at Friedsburg Days in Dashwood and he has always had a smile on his face and very friendly. I used to see him at the Exeter Legion, either helping out or just sitting back enjoying his beer. RIP.
Leon and Helen Coolman
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our condolences to the O’Rourke family.
Dennis Morrissey
We are saddened to hear of the passing of Glenn, our sincere condolences to the O’Rourke family.
Dennis & Sandi Morrissey
John Pryde
The O’Rourke family: Sincere condolences on the loss of a genuinely fine man .. . always a pleasure to run into on the street or at the Legion. RIP Glenn
Penny (Ford) Adams
I am so sorry to hear of Glenn’s passing. We were good friends and cousins for many years. He will be missed in the community. My deepest condolences to the entire O’Rourke family.
Gabbie and Margaret Mol
Sincere condolences with the passing of Glenn
Tom and Carol Arthur
Our sincere sympathy is extended to all the O’Rourke family.
Carla Revington
Dear O’Rourke family,
I was so sorry to read of Glen’s passing and so soon after Gwen’s.
May God and friends and family comfort all of you at this very sad time.
Joan Cleave
Mary & Jim, Pat, and the O’Rourke Family:
No words can describe my shock at hearing of Glenns passing…he seemed so vibrant and full of life all the time…So so saddened to know I will never see his smiling face again…he was a gentleman and a true friend. Gone, but never forgotten. Rest in Peace Glenn….
Dietrich
To the O’Rourke Family,
Such a shock to hear of the sudden passing of Glenn.
We have lots of happy memories of his annual visits around Christmas most years; solo games; and the fun times he and Milt had in their prime. We will surely miss him…….
Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Love and Prayers, Milt and Barb
LOIS AND DOUG THIEL
Sincere sympathy to all the O’Rourke family as you cope with your loss of Glenn.May many happy memories help you through this time of sorrow and grief. May it help to know that others are thinking of you in prayers and support.
Sincerely Lois and Doug Thiel
Susan Sabourin
Joe, Betty and family
So sorry to hear o f Glenn passing.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Susan Lenk Sabourin
Kevin McDonald
So very sorry to hear this sad news. Glenn visited my parents place all the time while stationed in Mount Forest. He was such a gentleman in every way.
Jim & Linda Dietrich
Sincere sympathy to all the O,Rourke Family, so sorry for your loss.
K.R. (Reg) Mason
Glenn was a good friend during his time in Mount Forest. We would talk often in my office at the O.P.P.
Office there. I know him to have been well liked and deeply involved in the community at large, so much so a portrait of him and his faithful four legged companion and co-worker have been memorialized as part of a large mural on the wall of the local grocery store. He should Rest In Peace for a well lived life.
joan finkbeiner
To Glens family. You have my condolences. It was a shock to hear of his passing. He will be missed terribly on friday nights at the legion. He ran the friday night meat draws. He talked to everyone . He helped were ever he could at the legion. Glen you will be missed.
Joan Finkbeiner
Debra LaPorte
I am deeply saddened to hear of Glenn’s sudden passing. Fortunately, I got to meet Glenn through the hockey pool he ran. I enjoyed our conversations and that unique laugh he had. You have my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy
Klaus Seibert
He was a good friend, neighbor and board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Wellington for many years when he lived in Mount Forest. He will be missed.
Peter & Lori Wells
Our deepest condolences to the entire O’Rourke family.
Glenn was the big brother I never had and a very dear friend
lori and I are devastated and Heartbroken.
We will miss him everyday!!
R.I.P
Glenn will never be forgotten
Brian Hodgins
So sorry to hear of Glenn’s passing.Always a smiling face and friendly wave when I saw him.He was a genuine nice guy.
Jacki-Dawn McMeekin
Glen was a terrific man who was highly respected personally and professionally during his 32 years of service and in his short period of retirement. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by all. May he rest in peace.
Jacki-Dawn McMeekin
Mississauga, ON
TOM LAFRANCE
I was fortunate enough to have worked with Glenn in Mount Forest, shared many golfing trips to South Carolina and broke bread at each others homes.. He was what any person could ask for in a true friend and I valued that friendship to no end. His passing is a surprise and I extend to his family may deepest and sincere condolences. I am disappointed that I will miss his celebration of life but will be there in thought.
Phil and Lisa Dietrich
Thinking of you, the O’Rourke clan with deepest sympathies.
Mike and JoAnne Pickering
Sending our deepest condolences to the O’Rourke family.
Tom and Bev Prout
To the O’Rourke Family
I enjoyed curling with and against Glen on Tuesdays. A great guy!
Our sincere condolences.
Tom and Bev Prout
Harv and Evelyn Vincent
Sincere sympathy to each of Glenn’s family. A huge loss may God grant peace and comfort
Ron Oesch
My sincere condolences to the O,rourke family
Tracy Stire (Ford)
The O’Rourke Family
My deepest condolences on the loss of your brother. A great guy with a passion for many things and lived life fully. Will be truly missed by all who knew him. Hugs to all of you.
Dave Frayne and Cathy Cade
To the O’Rourke family:
It was a shock when I received the call advising of Glenn’s passing.
I enjoyed curling with Glenn and our talks, he will be missed.
Thinking of you during this difficult time and our prayers are with you.
Karen Swithzer
Rest in Peace my friend
RON AND GLENDA
To O’Rourke Family
Our Sincere Condolences go out to every one of you, he will be missed by many keep all those great memories close
Ron & Glenda Lindenfield
Muriel and Tom
To all of Glenn’s family……what a shock….we heard the familar sound of Glenn’s snowblower on Sunday afternoon and then to hear of his death later in the evening…..he was such a lovely neighbour and will truly be missed…..Tom and Muriel Dalrymple
Bill & Judy Gerber
Dear Family, so very sorry to read of Glenn’s passing. So very sorry.
Katherine Ens
Deepest Sympathy to the whole O’Rourke family. Glenn will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Rosemarie Ferguson
Glenn’s sudden passing was a shock and such a huge loss. I have met Glenn on several occasions over the years, at both happy and solemn events. Such a nice man! Engaging, clever, and witty! He was so involved with his community and I am certain his loss will be felt for some time. Glenn’s loss has no doubt left the O’Rourke family reeling, especially so soon after Gwen’s passing. Our heartfelt sympathy is sent to all of Glenn’s brothers and sister and his extended family. Sincerest commiserations sent from Ian and Rosemarie Ferguson.
Barbara MacDougall
So very sorry for your loss. Hugs to all.
Doug and Wilma Rathwell
Sincere sympathy to the family at this difficult time our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Keriann O'Rourke and Kelso Beggs
I wanted to share my tribute to Uncle Glenn that I posted on FB so that all the messages are kept together. He will be so missed by us all.
It is with the O’Rourke family’s deepest sorrow that we inform our friends and neighbours here on FB of the death of our beloved brother and uncle, Glenn O’Rourke on Sunday 19th January 2020 after a sudden heart failure. Glenn was brother to seven siblings who all loved him very dearly. As our family reflects on Glenn’s life we celebrate his dedication and commitment to being a police officer with the O.P.P. and the important work he did with his K-9 police dogs through the years. He helped with important searches and most notably saved Yvonne Jantzi from freezing to death when she wandered away from her family home as a toddler in March 1981. He remained strongly connected to her and her family from the day that he found her and saved her life. This experience of saving this young girl was an accomplishment that he was always extremely proud of. He loved his family and always made the time to join in every family event and celebrate the happy moments, accomplishments and showed his support through the difficult times as well. He volunteered countless hours to a number of service groups in support of his community. He loved golfing, curling and especially enjoyed any sport that involved enjoying an icy cold beer. He was never afraid to express his opinion on the rights (and his idea of what was wrong) in the world and heldfast to his beliefs. We are saddened that he will never get his $30 back from AirTransat that he so desperately wanted their acknowledgement of their wrongdoings (and more importantly their reimbursement!) We remember his knack for creating homemade alcoholic provisions such as his infamous dandelion wine as a young man and improved his skills over the years with an upgrade to homemade Baileys which he enjoyed sharing just as much as we all enjoyed consuming it. He was an avid gardener and loved to share his extra produce with neighbours, friends and family. We are thankful for the life we shared with him and will miss him around the family dinner table, summer fire pit and playing his favourite card game, Solo, with his siblings.
Love, Keriann
Murray Adam
I am very sorry to hear of Glenn’s passing. Please accept my sincere condolences. May be rest in peace.
Anmarie Kraft-Hoffman
It is with sadness that I send my ‘Deepest Condolences’ to all of Glenn’s family…….. with Hugs, Anmarie (Kraft) Hoffman
Julie
An amazing nice man and heart of gold, glad I was able to know him for the 2 years I did
William Pearson
Glenn was a great guy and although I never worked with him at his detachment, he was a welcome sight if you needed his expertise and his dogs tracking ability. I never saw him without his calm exterior and pleasant smile. That is how I’ll remember Glenn. So sorry for your loss.
Sandra and Darryl Hood.
So deeply sorry in the unexpected passing of our dear cousin Glen. He was a fine man. A respected member of the Community. He will be dearly missed.
Ralph & Denise Batten
We enjoyed spending time with Glenn at the Legion playing Trivia and at the meat draws. Glenn was certainly someone you wanted on your team. (True trivia ringer) Our deepest sympathy to all of Glenn’s family. He will certainly be missed.
Angela (Morrissey) Boyle
Our condolences to the O’Rourke Family. So sorry to hear of this loss.
Angela (Morrissey) and Michael Boyle
Jim Florence
If you had Glenn for a friend, you were indeed fortunate.
I consider myself one of those who he favoured with his friendship and I will miss him always.
Condolences to the O’Rourke family.
Rest in peace, Glenn, my friend.