Eugene Glauz

All who knew Eugene Glauz would agree that there was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family. He was a hardworking man who gave everything his all. Eugene was a loving husband and father, and there was nothing he treasured more than becoming a grandfather and great-grandfather later in life. Although he could be stubborn at times, but he was also quiet and gentle as well. Life will never be the same without Eugene here, but he leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

The 1920s were an exciting time in America. Jazz music, ballroom dancing, and motion pictures in both color and sound were among the threads that were woven into the cultural fabric of our nation during this time. Cars were more affordable, washing machines and refrigerators became part of our homes, and prosperity was largely felt nationwide. It was during this eventful time that Glendon Emil and Jean Marie (VanderGriek) Glauz announced the birth of the baby boy they named Eugene Don on June 3, 1928. He was the older of two as his brother, William, was born when Eugene was nine. Eugene’s father owned and operated Glauz Construction in Grand Rapids while his mother worked in the fur department at Wurzburg’s Department Store.

Growing up in the family home on Valley Avenue, NW, Eugene was a typical young boy of his generation. He looked forward to extended visits with his grandparents who lived and worked in a manor in Greenville. His grandma was the housekeeper and cook while his grandpa was the groundskeeper. Eugene acquired a lifetime taste for cooking to personal taste and love for his own lawn and tinkering from these impressionable visits with his grandparents. As a student he attended Sibley Elementary School and Union High School. He also learned the masonry trade from his father during this time.

New and exciting changes were in store for Eugene when he met the woman of his dreams. Her name was Eileen Hickey, and after falling in love they were married on December 6, 1947. Eugene built their first two houses both on Sunset Hills, NW. They sold the first one after their family grew bigger, and they then built across and down the street from the first one. Their family expanded to include five children in all: Sandra, Diana, Deborah, Eugene, and Dan. As a father Eugene was a disciplinarian, but he was mostly kind, gentle, quiet, and soft spoken. As a family they enjoyed camping, and they also enjoyed spending time at a cottage on Lake Tahoe in New Era, Michigan. There were also Sunday drives to Reeds Lake for crazy corn.

To support his family, Eugene worked tirelessly. He first went to work as a mason in his father’s construction company. Eugene was always so proud of being part of the crew who built Windmill Island in Holland. He also was proud of building many of the buildings at Grand Valley State University. As the family was out driving, Eugene would always point out houses and buildings that he had built. When he began suffering from rheumatoid arthritis in his 40s, he was forced to give up his masonry career. At that time, Eugene went to work for a Muir Photo Finishing doing all sorts of tasks including shipping and receiving. He retired after twenty years at Muir.

In his time outside of work, Eugene still kept busy. He was the primary cook in the house, and among his specialties were roast beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy that he was very particular about. Chili was also a favorite. Eugene was a firm believer in seasoning everything according to personal preferences rather than following a recipe to the letter. He was also meticulous about his lawn and flowers.

During their retirement years, he and his wife enjoyed their time together. They first spent six weeks in Florida during the winter, but once they found that the Arizona climate was better for Eugene’s arthritis they got a place in Yuma, Arizona. For the 15 years that followed, they spent November through April 15th there. Since his brother also lived near there, it was always a fun time. They also enjoyed visiting the casinos and also took trips to Las Vegas.

Throughout his rich and rewarding life, Eugene Glauz was a blessing in the lives of so many. He was a strong presence and someone that others knew they could count on in ways both great and small. Although Eugene wasn’t overly outspoken about it, he made sure his family knew they were deeply loved. Frugal and hardworking, he was content in whatever life brought. Eugene will be forever remembered.

GLAUZ, Eugene Don

Grand Rapids, MI

Aged 90, passed away on Wednesday, March 27, 2019. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Eileen; daughter, Sandra Stora; son, Eugene; and brother, William. Eugene was one of the principle masons on the Windmill Island project in Holland. He served in Walker civil defense, loved yard work, camping and weekend trips to the cottage with his family. Eugene is survived by children, Diana (Warren) Post, Deborah Huizenga, Daniel (Cindy) Glauz; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, & great great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Paula Glauz, Margaret Diedrich, Rose Hickey, Joanne Hickey, Barbara (Marv) Vandyke; and many nieces, nephews & friends. Cremation has taken place. There will be no public service. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. www.lifetorynet.com