Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Glenn Arden Staples, 76, passed away on January 2, 2021, at ThedaCare Appleton in the presence of the family that brought him great pride and joy. Glenn was born December 26, 1944, in Wisconsin Rapids, the eldest child of the late Marjorie (Johnson) and Vance Staples. Glenn graduated from Tri-County High School in 1963, where he lettered in football and wrestling. Glenn was also involved in 4-H and FFA. Glenn attended UW-Stevens Point for one year before entering the U.S. Air Force. Glenn served in the Vietnam War and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Glenn married Margaret “Peggy” Wachter on July 3, 1965. Together they raised three sons and built a lifetime of happy memories. Glenn had an impressive career in mechanics and maintenance, working for LPI/Pepsi, Empire Farms, Bergstrom Automotive Group and Community First Credit Union. In addition, Glenn worked as a paraprofessional teaching auto mechanics at Fox Valley Technical College. He was recognized by Bergstrom as employee of the month and awarded a free trip which he and Peggy enjoyed. Glenn assumed responsibility and a solid work ethic at an early age, something he passed on to his three sons.
Glenn and Peggy settled in the town of Winchester, where they are long-standing members of Grace Lutheran Church. Glenn set up his dream shop at their home where he helped a steady stream of people in need of his special gifts as a mechanic. This dedication to others continued even as Glenn was fighting to recover in the hospital.
Glenn enjoyed hunting and being outdoors, where he could watch birds and other wildlife. Just 6 weeks ago, Glenn bagged a 6-point buck, one of many in his lifetime. Glenn was an expert marksman! He also enjoyed bowling and roller skating (he and Peggy met at Lo-Nor roller rink), but his great joy was working in his shop. Glenn had a special gift to make even the most hopeless machine come back to life.
Glenn is survived by Peggy, his loving wife of 55 years, his sons Jeff (Ruth) and the granddaughters he adored Maggie and Olivia, of Leesburg, GA, Mike of Oshkosh, Scott (Tom) of Wausau, sisters Ellynn (Tom) Jagielo of Wisconsin Rapids, Cyndy (Joe) Omernik of Stevens Point, sisters-in-law Jeanie (Mike) Martin of Big Canoe, GA, Kathy (Bill) Appel of Green Bay, brother-in-law Jim (Kim) Wachter of Tucson, AZ, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Heaven has gained a gentle giant.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private service will be held. Burial with military honors will be in the Plainfield Cemetery. Mueller Funeral Home-Winneconne is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Disabled American Veterans at www.dav-wi.org
There will be a celebration of life for Glenn at a future date. If you wish to be notified of the scheduled celebration, please email glenncelebrationoflife@gmail.com.
If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfh.net.
Gary and Mary Zurbuchen wrote on January 7, 2021
Glenn and Peggy were our best neighbors and best friends for the past 28 years. Glenn was an amazing man—kind, thoughtful and generous. He possessed a God-given talent to repair like new anything mechanical. It was his greatest joy to help his neighbors in need. He will be greatly missed. Often late at night you could see the light on in his shop as he worked to fix something broken. Forever we will instinctively always look out at night to see if the light is on. We know his spirit will be there fixing broken things. If God finds something broken in heaven, now we know God will be able to give the job to Glenn.
Chrissy Knaak wrote on January 5, 2021
I am so very sorry for your loss. It was such a pleasure to meet Glenn and share his company. I hope some time soon that we can celebrate his life together, until thenI hope his great kindness and love he showed us all brings you comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Scott Willkomm wrote on January 5, 2021
Peggy and family, my sincerest condolences for your loss. Although I have only lived in the neighborhood for a few short years Glenn was always a friendly face and helpful when needed. Especially when the snow got deep. There were several times that he was over here with his snowblower before I ever had a chance to start clearing my driveway. I wish I had more time to know him and I will definitely miss our conversations in his driveway when I am out walking my dog. Rest in Peace Glenn and Thank You for your service.
Tim wrote on January 4, 2021
Thank you for your. Service in war time in Vietnam
Gerald and Darlene Breuer wrote on January 4, 2021
Peggy and Glenn’s family.
Our sincere sympathy in the loss of Glenn. We have never known a greater man and enjoyed living in the same neighborhood with him. He was always happy and friendly and made you feel the same.
Rest In Peace Glenn. God will be happy to welcome you home.