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 six weeks ago, Glenn bagged a six-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.
