Glenn Douglas Peirson was a poet. He was also a skilled physician, accomplished musician, athlete, man of faith, father, brother, son and husband. A man of many gifts and passions, Glenn, like the poet John Keats was claimed by illness in the prime of his life. His lasting legacy for those who know him, and may yet come to know him, is his poetry and writings which are in turn observant, comical, poignant and profound.
Where do I begin in trying to sum up my friend Glenn Peirson? He was a rare one, was Glenn, a perfect blend of saint, clown, philosopher, pixie, artist, scholar. All of us who were privileged to know him are immeasurably richer for having walked with him. Glenn had a very big brain and an even bigger heart. He was funny, smart, profoundly spiritual, and highly literate. He was a genuine Renaissance man. He was Glenn and he was as true and loyal and intense a friend as anyone could ever hope to have.
Howard Dyck, conductor and broadcaster
Glenn’s faith sustained him throughout his life. He was a healer not only of bodies but also of broken spirits and strained relationships. Glenn left bonds to hang onto – his teachings about life and faith, and family and church, and courage and love. He wrote much about his journey with cancer and how it impacted his life. These precious writings are Glenn’s legacy. Soul food. From a man whose life touched others deeply… a man who left his mark strongly. Thanks be to God for Glenn Douglas Peirson.
Reverend Emmy Beauchamp
Like a stone cast into a still pond, radiating rings of energy, Glenn’s life has sent ripples outward into our own lives: he “negotiated the passage” of his life with joy, grace, intellectual vigour and compassion. His sense of the ridiculous was well-honed! He would often leave us helplessly aching and wheezing with laughter at his hilarious recounting of life’s many absurdities.
Without him, an inexpressible dimension has gone from our personal lives. What overrides that loss, though, is our gratitude for the reality that we have had the great privilege of bearing witness to his vibrant presence.
Evelyn Dunsmore, educator and friend