Dr. William Glen

1932 - 2025

Dr. William Glen, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, at the age of 93 in southern California. He leaves behind a legacy of scholarship, mentorship, memorable conversations, and love.

Bill, as his friends and family referred to him, was born in Brooklyn, NY, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in geology from Brooklyn College, and served with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (l953-55). He then moved to California with his wife Marilyn in 1955 to study at U.C. Berkeley where he earned his Master's degree in paleontology-stratigraphy. He held research Fellowships at Harvard University and U.C. Berkeley before becoming a professor of Earth Science at the College of San Mateo where he taught for 40 years. During his time at CSM, he received his PhD from the Union Graduate School (Union Institute/Antioch College) in 1979 when he forged a new path as an historian of science. During this later stage of his career, he held appointments as a visiting Scientist/Historian, at the U. S. Geological Survey in Menlo Park, CA, and Editor-at-Large at the Stanford University Press.

Bill's contributions to the understanding of plate tectonics helped shape students and enthusiasts of geology, while his writings on the history of scientific thought offered profound insights into how knowledge evolves. Early in his career, Bill wrote a concise account of Continental Drift and Plate Tectonics that was common curricula for Earth science students, and an approachable introduction on the tenets of modern geosciences. Later, he became fascinated by the ways in which ideas evolve and intersect, and how contemporary history provides insights into how science advances. His detailed work, through meticulous oral history from the researchers who developed plate tectonics theory is reflected in his book, The Road to Jaramillo: Critical Years of the Revolution in Earth Science, which remains a touchstone in geology, and on the history and philosophy of science.

As a professor, Dr. Glen inspired countless students with his clarity, curiosity, and compassion. He taught not only facts but the importance of questioning existing canon, of connecting disciplines, and the role of serendipity in science.

In addition to all of Dr. Glen's academic and professional achievements, he was a nationally ranked fencer in college, lifelong ocean sailboat racer (with a special affection for his Gladiator boat named Talaria), and avid runner and biker. He also loved baroque classical music, meeting weekly with his friends and colleagues for lively intellectual discussions, and cooking and enjoying fabulous meals with his family. His four grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren were his pride and joy.

To his children, Bill was a steady presence-a father who encouraged exploration, nurtured imagination, and integrity. He believed that the pursuit of truth was best undertaken with kindness and modesty.

Bill is survived by his wife Marilyn, children – Bennett, Hilary, and Jonathan, beloved grandchildren – Sasha, Adam, Jeremy, Joshua, and great grandchildren Wyatt and Chloe. He also leaves behind a wide circle of former students, colleagues, and friends who were touched by his wisdom and warmth.

A memorial service will be held at the Porterhouse Restaurant* at noon on Saturday November 29, 2025. If you plan to attend the service, please RSVP by calling or texting Hilary Glen at (714) 336-8584. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Doctors Without Borders.

* Porterhouse Restaurant
164 S. B Street San Mateo, CA 94401
www.porterhousesanmateo.com
(650) 579-5911