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Glenn Koons Obituary

Glenn Bryan Koons of Sinking Springs Glenn B. Koons, 53, died August 31, 2011, in Spring Township. Born December 16, 1957, he was the son of Hiram C. "Bud" and Florence J. "Joan" Koons of Martinsburg. Surviving are his parents; a sister, Kathy, of Claysburg; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was a 1975 graduate of Great Valley Senior High School in Malvern and earned an Electronic Engineering Technology Certificate from RETS Electronic School in Broomall. Glenn was a Certified Peer Specialist at Wernersville State Hospital and prior to that served as Southeast Region Community Support Program Coordinator for the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania. His impact on the community was tremendous. He served on a variety of boards and committees for organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), NAMI Pennsylvania, and many other organizations across the state. He was serving a three-year term on the Mental Health Association in Pennsylvania Board of Directors, for which he was Immediate Past President. Glenn was trained as one of the first NAMI Peer-to-Peer mentors in the United States and as an "In Our Own Voice" NAMI national program presenter. He maintained two national listservs: KNOWHOW and Voices for Work. Glenn also was one of four NAMI National men who was recognized by President Obama at a reception celebrating the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) 20th anniversary. In addition to his work in the mental health field, Glenn loved singing, listening to and recording music, and playing the keyboard, guitar, and saxophone. He also enjoyed spending time with his family in the Cove and loved all of the activities in the area, including bowling at Memorial Park and shopping in Altoona. Friends will be received from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 8, at St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 203 North Valley Forge Road, Devon, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., with Pastor Susan Ericsson officiating. Interment will follow at Valley Forge Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Glenn may be made to NAMI Pennsylvania, 2149 North 2nd Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110. To share your fondest memory of Glenn, please visit www.lifecelebration.com Life celebration services provided by Mauger-Givnish of Malvern, 610-644-2240.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Local from Sep. 6 to Sep. 7, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
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Sue Pasker

December 12, 2011

I just learned of Glenn's passing. We worked together many years ago in OMHSAS where he was very active in the development of Drop In Centers and also the CSP. He was a good friend and I miss him. God bless his family.

Maxine Bender-Brey

October 3, 2011

"In a difficult field, during the most trying times, Glenn was kind, genuine and always had truly good intentions. He was a rare and beautiful gem. It is hard to imagine a world without him."

October 3, 2011

Speaking for the consumers at Wernersville State Hospital I can say that we all miss your caring, kindness and compassion. Your laughter and personal attention has brightened so many lives. The world has been enriched by your presence.

Bob Manrodt
Spiritual Supports

Vahan Berberian

September 23, 2011

I knew Glenn from high school. We hadn't seen one another for years. Then one day I passed him on the sidewalk outside the counseling center in the shopping center behind Las Vegas pizza. He recognized me and called my name out loud. He was helping people new to sobriety. He understood their needs and genuinely offered of himself whatever he could to help them adjust to a new lifestyle. His true concern reassured them that he would be there for them and his actions and acknowledgements proved it. For me personally, I will always remember that boisterous and hearty laugh that came from such a caring and jovial fellow. May God reward you in heaven for all your good works here on earth.

September 19, 2011

I first met Glenn at a NAMI National Convention in Washington D.C. and I immediately learned by talking with him what an incredible person he was. An tireless advocate for persons(like myself) living with mental illness, he will greatly missed by everyone that had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in Peace, Glenn.

Kathy Parks

September 18, 2011

It's so awesome to hear and see all the lives that Glenn touched, and so comforting for my family and I to realize that he will be greatly missed by so many. RIP Glenn, I miss you but I know you're watching over us now, and that the smile has returned to your face, and to your heart. It was my pleasure to spend 47 years as your sister, and your memory will live on. Love always, Kathy Koons Parks.

Tammy McKenzie

September 17, 2011

Glenn will always be remembered by his gentle spirit and compassion towards others. Glenn was instrumental in providing support to my late brother, David. I will never forget my first encounter with Glenn and how he was so willing to help a stranger. Glenn also helped me in me in my learning of the mental health system. I will always be greatful to have know Glenn. My warmest condolescenses to his family.

Stacey Taglieber

September 11, 2011

Glenn was a wonderful person an was very helpful to me when i got involved with NAMI an Chester county csp he will be missed

September 9, 2011

Glen rode with me when we worked at NAMI PA in Harrisburg. I had the joy of watching him blossom into a leader who brought folks together to advocate for us all. I especially remember NAMI's voter registration program I Vote, I Count where he energized so many first time voters. I miss his joy at parties and big bear hugs. Karen Willimann, Chester County

Melissa Mosier

September 8, 2011

Glenn was a great person and a great friend. Glad we had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be remembered by all that knew him. His Family and Friends will always have a place in their heart for him. We will miss him everyday and cherish all the memories. he was an assett to the mental health community. Will never forget the conferences and it won't be the same without him!!!! Glenn, you will be missed. You are yet another angel watching over us!!! In Deepest Sympathy, Carl and Melissa Mosier. Thoughts and Prayers are with the whole family at this time.

September 8, 2011

What I remember most about Glenn were 3 things. His laugh which could brighten up any room. His gentleness and his compassion for others. He was a hard worker and dedicated to helping others find their worth and possibility. Wendy Wood, PMHCA

September 8, 2011

I got to know Glenn when we were neighbors in the southeast part of West Chester, and got to work with him on a number of local issues. He was an exceptional man and a role model for others, including me. I am sorry to learn of his passing, and all I can offer to his family and friends is my testimony about how Glenn made other people's lives better.

Jim Jones
West Chester Borough Council

Alan Stone

September 7, 2011

Glenn was known by so many people and always helped someone in need. Glenn could talk to 1 person or Hundreds at a time and he was very compassionate with everyone. I will always remember how you helped me with your understanding and compassion.

Nick DeSantis

September 7, 2011

May Glenn rest in peace at home with God. As home is where the heart is, Glenn will live in our hearts always. His compassion and peace is eternal. His inspiration lives on!

Matthew Federici

September 7, 2011

Glenn was a personal friend to me and my family. He was an inspiration to many and he graced everyone he met with a mixture of friendship, humor and compassion. I am grateful for the friendship and peer support he held with my brother and me over the many years. I will hold his spirit in my memories and living because of his passion and dedication to supporting others in their journey.

Kathy Laws

September 7, 2011

Dear Joan and Bud,
We are sorry to learn of Glenn's death. He was such a warm and funny person, so inspiring to our family. I am so glad we had the chance to know him. We will miss him.
The Laws Family, Montgomery County, PA

Barbara Granger

September 7, 2011

In loving memory of a terrific person who will be missed by many of us he has helped and encouraged.

Eileen Joseph

September 7, 2011

Glenn was a vital voice in the MH Recovery movement. He was a man of great compassion and sincere friendship. I enjoyed Glenn's friendship for many years and was proud to have him serve as a member of the Board of Directors of CareLink Community Support Services. Glenn's passing will be felt by many, many people. Our prayers and condolences go out to Glenn's family. May you find consolation in the memories of Glenn's kindness and zest for life.

September 7, 2011

Joan and Bud- We are all "Celebrating Glenn's Life" Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011. His spirit will continue to motivate so many lives he touched on their path to Recovery. As you know, he was like a son to me, also.
Sincerely, Marilyn Baker "Step Mom"

Judy Zetts

September 7, 2011

So sorry for your loss

Donna Rosati

September 6, 2011

Glenn was loved by many from across the country and will be missed by all of us. May your family find peace in all of the joy and knowledge Glenn brought to all of us. I will keep you in my prayers. Glenn will stay in my heart forever.

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