Glenn Joseph Gaudette

Glenn Gaudette Obituary
Glenn Joseph Gaudette, 72, of Mary Esther, Florida, passed away on December 16, 2023, after a courageous five-month battle and complications following a brain aneurysm. He was born on June 21, 1951, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to Thomas and Patricia Gaudette.
Glenn was a dedicated and decorated veteran who proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1970 to 1991. Throughout his esteemed career, he served as an AC-130H Flight Engineer and later as an AC-130H and AC-130U Flight Engineer Aircrew Instructor at the 19th Special Operations Squadron. Glenn's commitment and dedication to his service were exemplary, and he retired as a Master Sergeant in January 1991. Following his retirement, he continued his service in a government contract position at Hurlburt Field, Florida, working as a Synthetic Environment Coordinator at the 19th Special Operations Squadron, supporting flight simulator training events for the AC-130J gunship. At the time of his passing, Glenn was the longest-tenured SEC with over 30 years of service, working for VectorCSP. His influence and mentorship made him a valued friend to many Ghostriders.
Glenn was an active member of VFW Post 7674, where he served on the House Committee, bringing the post into the 2020s. He was always the first to volunteer to assist Veterans and their families, embodying the spirit of service and camaraderie.
In 1998, Glenn met Mathana, and happily married in 2000. When not immersed in his work, Glenn found joy in helping others. He took pride in maintaining their yard, while Mathana engaged her passion for gardening. Every Christmas for the past 16 years, they loaded up their van with food and gifts, traveling to Atlanta, creating cherished memories with family. Glenn's love extended to his beloved golden retrievers, including Tommy, Sahara, and most recently, Kaira, whom he cared for and played with over the years.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Mathana of Mary Esther; daughter, Ashlie (Gaudette) Singleton and husband, Lee; stepsons, John Collura and wife, Siri, and Michelle Eggers; brother, Tom Gaudette; mother, Pat Gaudette; and seven grandchildren, Ethan, Ava, Tabitha, Nick, Gabe, Nate, and Everett. Glenn was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Gaudette and sister, Michelle Gaudette.
Memorial services to celebrate Glenn's life will be held on Friday, January 5, at 5:00 p.m. at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Road Northeast, Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The family requests that flowers be sent to Davis Watkins Funeral Home or, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to VFW Post 7674.
Glenn Joseph Gaudette will be remembered for his dedication to service, his kindness, and the love he shared with family and friends. May he rest in peace, leaving behind a legacy of honor, compassion, and love.