Glenn Dolence

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Dr. Glenn D. Dolence passed away at home in Webb City on May 24 at the age of 83.

Glenn is survived by wife, Myrna; children, Terry Gaskins (Bob), Kelli Hopkins (David), John Dolence (Phyllis), Lori Good (Chuck), and DeDe Cox (Chris). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, John Dolence and Beatrice (Hopkins) Dolence, sister Erma Jean Snedegar and brother Ernest Dolence.

Glenn was born on April 29, 1936, in Goodman, Missouri. He graduated from Neosho High School in 1954. He attended Missouri Valley College where he earned his degree in education, history and physical education in 1958. He returned to Neosho and began his career in education as a history instructor. He earned his Masters Degree in counseling in 1961. 

From the classroom, Glenn progressed as director of counseling, assistant principal, and director of curriculum. He was also assistant football coach with Calvin Lane. In 1970 Glenn earned his Ed.D. in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas. He then began his career at Missouri Southern State College as Dean of Men. He served as Athletic Director, then as Vice President for Student Services until his retirement in 1996. Missouri Southern is also where he met his wife of 41 years, Myrna. 

Glenn was an accomplished woodworker and all-around handyman and created beautiful furniture still enjoyed by his children and grandchildren. He believed in changing the world by his many volunteer opportunities. 

Glenn was the former Mayor of Webb City, Chairman of the United Way, active in the Webb City Central United Methodist Church, a lay minister, Webb City Citizen of the Year, and volunteered for many other service projects. During his life, Glenn received many honors including his induction to the MSSU and Missouri Valley Hall of Fame.

A memorial service celebrating his life is scheduled for 2:30 P.M. Tuesday, May 28 at the Central United Methodist Church in Webb City, preceded by visitation from 10:00 A.M. until noon. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Dolence Student Leadership Endowment at MSSU or the MSSU Athletic Department.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home, Webb City, Missouri.