Glen Rowley Buell

Glen Rowley Buell, (call sign KD8FAB), beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and esteemed member of his community, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, in Beavercreek, Ohio, due to complications related to Parkinson’s disease. Born on January 10, 1931, in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Glen’s life was woven from the threads of devotion to family, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, and a deep commitment to service.

Glen’s remarkable career spanned more than four decades, with twenty-five years devoted to the federal government at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. He took particular pride in his twelve years at the Aerospace Research Laboratories, where he made significant contributions to theoretical and synthetic organo-silicon chemistry. His legacy includes the discovery of a new chemical reaction, a groundbreaking paper on silicon nuclear magnetic resonance, and the establishment of state-of-the-art facilities for nuclear magnetic resonance and automated gas chromatography. Throughout his career, Glen authored over thirty refereed scientific publications and presentations, inspiring countless students and colleagues alike. His academic journey began in humble surroundings; he attended a one-room schoolhouse before earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Missouri in 1953, a Master of Arts in Organic Chemistry in 1955, and ultimately a Doctorate of Philosophy in Chemistry from the University of Kansas in 1961. His academic achievements did not go unnoticed, as he was honored with the prestigious distinctions of Sigma Xi for Scientific Research and Phi Lambda Upsilon for his contributions to Chemistry.

On December 30, 1961, Glen married the love of his life, Patricia Verbich in Donora, Pennsylvania. Their marriage of 63 years stands as a testament to their enduring love and partnership, marked by shared laughter and unwavering support for one another. Together, they raised their sons, Christopher Buell and Mark (Kirsten) Buell, instilling in them the values of hard work, integrity, and kindness. Glen’s joy extended to his beloved grandchildren, Hannah (Andy) Warner, Noah Buell, and Luke Buell, who cherished their time with “Grandpa Buell.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Glen was deeply committed to his community and the sport of volleyball. As head coach of the Wright State Men’s Volleyball team, he inspired young athletes and volunteered as a coach for the Beavercreek High School Men’s Volleyball program, where he was affectionately known as "Grandpa Buell." The years between 1978 and 1981 saw Glen serve as one of the travel coordinators for the U.S. Men’s National Volleyball Team at Wright State University. It was during this time that he fostered international friendships with members of various national volleyball teams, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Glen also played a role in coordinating travel arrangements for the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team during their exhibition matches.

Glen’s legacy is one marked by love and resilience. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Phyllis Buell, his brother Thomas "Tommy" Buell, who lost his life during the Korean War, and his brothers Jimmy "Jim" (Joan) Buell and other family members including sister-in-law Anne Buell. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Patricia Buell, sons Christopher Buell and Mark (Kirsten) Buell, grandchildren, and his brother Jerry Buell, along with several nieces and nephews who will forever treasure his memory.

As we remember Glen Rowley Buell, we celebrate a life lived fully—a life that touched many hearts through kindness, knowledge, and unwavering dedication to family and community. His spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his legacy remains indelibly etched in our hearts. Funeral services will be held on February 3, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home in Beavercreek, Ohio, where friends and family may gather to honor his remarkable journey and share in the love that Glen brought into this world.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.