Glenn Massay

Longtime Palmer resident Glenn Massay, 81, died Jan. 28, 2013, unexpectedly near his new home in Trapper Creek.

Glenn was born in Beaver Falls, Penn. His father, George E. Massay, was a minister and his mother, Florence Hough Massay, was a schoolteacher. Glenn attended Bethany College and California State Teachers College, where he completed his degree in education.

After serving in the Army Signal Corps as a photographer, Glenn taught junior high school for several years before earning his masters and doctorate degrees in history at West Virginia University. After serving in various faculty positions at several universities, Glenn discovered the passion of his life in community college administration.

As a result of a chance meeting during an Alaska vacation, Glenn became the founding president of the Tanana Valley Community College in Fairbanks and began his long career with the University of Alaska. As Glenn’s reputation of understanding and adapting programs to meet the changing educational needs of a community grew, Glenn moved to Palmer to build enrollment at Mat-Su Community College, where he served as academic dean and director of the college. After retiring from Mat-Su College, he was awarded the first “Director Emeritus” title in the University of Alaska system.

Glenn was active in the community serving on several boards, including the Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce and United Way. He had a wonderful baritone voice and was active in musical performances throughout his life.

Surviving are his wife, Donna; children, Garth and Stephanie Massay, Holly Massay, Robin and Stacey Daniels, and Crispin and Mary Ruth Gentry; and grandchildren, Colton and Hunter Daniels and Hannah Grace Gentry.

A gathering in remembrance of Glenn will be held in the late spring. An announcement will be made at a later date.

In memory of Glenn, individuals may make contributions to the Glenn Massay Endowed Scholarship to benefit Mat-Su College students. Donations specifying “Glenn Massay Endowed Scholarship” should be sent to: University of Alaska Foundation, 1815 Bragaw St, Suite 203, Anchorage, AK 99508, or made securely online at http://greenandgold.uaa.alaska.edu/give/ (under “Where would you like us to direct your gift,” click “Other” and specify “Glenn Massay Endowed Scholarship.”)