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BORN
1914
DIED
2015
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Glen Bortell Obituary
Inverness, Fl
Glen Bortell, 100, April 18, 2015 of Inverness, FL, rode off for his final trail ride. Born September 9, 1914 to Katherine Swanson Bortell, and John Elmer Bortell in Grinnell, Iowa. He had survived one sister, and two brothers. At age 8 he officially started his life's work...helping others...by delivering laundry and groceries in his coaster wagon.
After high school he moved to Des Moines. Glen met Mary McKowen, married in 1939 for 64 years. They are survived by daughter Glenda, and Norman Ackley of Lecanto, FL; and two sons John, and Peggy Bortell of Homosassa, FL; and Bill, and Cynthia Bortell of Winterset, IA; five grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
Glen was a partner with United Foods until 1961. He was active with horse groups, including the Flying Hoofs Drill Team, and rode with the Za-Ga-Zig Shrine Mounted Patrol in Des Moines. The family started Bortell's Ranch Boys and Girls Camp in St. Charles, Iowa in 1962. "Aunt Mary" and "Uncle Glen" known to thousands of kids and families for 20 years. Glen served in both the Senate and in the House Representatives of Iowa Legislature 1969-77, Madison County Hospital Trustee, Township Trustee, Board Member of Association for Retarded Children, on County and Central Iowa Health Planning Councils, Farm Bureau, State Historical Society, Lions International, and a member of the Masonic Lodge, Consistory, Shrine,
Mary and Glen retired to Venice, Florida in 1985, and moved to Inverness in 1992 served on the board and fund raising for their church. After Mary's passing, Glen volunteered as a transporter at Citrus Memorial Hospital where he clocked over 6000 volunteer hours. CMH had a 100th birthday for their honored volunteer.
Celebration of Life: Wednesday, April 29 at 2:00 at The Davis Funeral Home in Inverness.
The family suggests donations go to Shriners Hospital for Children. Happy Trails!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Glen Bortell
Susan Russell
August 27, 2015
I rode in the Flying Hoofs when Glen was drillmaster. The Bortells and my family, the Joses, were long timers with that wonderful group, riding at Owen Crist's arena and entertaining all over the state. The Bar Rockin B came to be after my folks purchased some timberland in St. Charles and the Bortell's picniking there, loving the area, and deciding to buy land and start a summer camp next door. They dug the pond just in time for the storms created by a gulf hurricane to fill it. Happy trails, Glen. Remember you fondly. Susan
kent
July 20, 2015
I remember him from camp days,He and his wife were wonderful people,he will be missed!
Karen Speicher
May 13, 2015
So many good memories of the Bar Rockin B. I would go to the Sports and Vacation show in Des Moines to get enrolled for my two weeks in the summer. Beauty, hikesand earning my rock hound and bridge of courage, hay rack rides, Brigham, camp songs, skits and so much more. Uncle Glen, Aunt Mary, Glenda, John and Bill thanks for many summer memories.
Cynde Keating
May 2, 2015
Glen was always my adopted grandfather. He lead a full life. Good memories.
Marcia (Haymond)Wingler
April 29, 2015
I just happened to read the obit for "Uncle Glen" online when looking for something else!. I worked 2 summers at the ranch when I was in college in the 60's and had such a great time with wonderful memories of "Aunt Mary and "Uncle Glen". What a blessing that he lived 100 years! Glenda, John and Bill, you all have my deepest sympathy. We moved to AZ in 1985, so had lost touch with everyone. So glad I saw the picture and obituary and could send you my condolances.
Ginger Bassett
April 28, 2015
I'm so sorry to learn of "Uncle Glen's" passing. He was such a wonderful person. I am 61 years old myself, and I still have such wonderful memories of he and Aunt Mary at the Bortell's Bar Rocking B Ranch! My heartfelt condolences to the surviving family members.
Julie (Hintz) Murphy and Carolyn (Hintz) Lease
April 27, 2015
Uncle Glen truly touched so many lives. We got to know him so well riding those trails behind him on Beauty. Our thoughts are with everyone at this time.
April 26, 2015
So sorry to hear of loss. During this time there will be tears, but please keep in mind that even Jesus gave way to tears when someone he loved died. this occasion was recorded in the Bible at John 11:35.
From one who has experienced such grief, I offer my sympathy.
Gene & Kathy Garton
April 26, 2015
Uncle Glen will be remembered by so many. Gene and I helped John paint the house and loved coming to visit the ranch. Patches, one of many horses, was special to our daughter. John, we are so sorry for your loss. We are sending thoughts and prayers to you all. RIP Uncle Glen .
Joanne Nemechek
April 26, 2015
I knew Glen for 9 yrs in DI just an Awesome man and honored to have known him he will never be forgotten love you Glen xxoo
Sheila Patel
April 25, 2015
I have very fond memories of "Uncle" Glenn from when I was a camper at Bortell's. He was always smiling :-) I also remember when he and "Aunt" Mary retired to Florida. I often think back on the great times I had at summer camp, and Glen was a big part of that. You have my deepest sympathies, and warmest wishes at this time.
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Memorial Events
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Apr
29
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