Glen Bruce Simkins; Obituary, Death: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Glen Bruce Simkins, who left us peacefully on January 5th, 2025, in Hana, Hawaii, at the age of 68. Glen’s death marks the end of a life lived with purpose, passion, and a deep love for those around him. His family, friends, and the entire Hana community are mourning his loss, but we also celebrate the legacy of a remarkable man whose impact will forever be felt.
Glen was born on June 15th, 1956, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Bruce and Eleanor Simkins. Growing up, he developed a keen sense of curiosity about the world around him and a passion for adventure. Early on, Glen’s zest for life and desire to explore were evident. His love of nature and the outdoors took root as a young boy, and this connection would define much of his life’s journey.
After graduating from high school in West Virginia, Glen moved to the West Coast, where he attended college. He quickly found his calling in the world of environmental conservation, where he would go on to make a profound impact. Glen’s work, which focused on preserving natural resources and advocating for environmental justice, earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and the communities he served. He dedicated his life to understanding and protecting the environment, often finding beauty in places others might overlook.
His professional life was a reflection of his character: grounded in a deep sense of responsibility to protect the natural world, guided by a genuine desire to make a difference. Glen was the type of person who believed that even the smallest actions could have a lasting impact on the world. His efforts to bring about positive change were driven by a love for nature, but they were also deeply rooted in his love for humanity.
In 2003, after years of living on the mainland, Glen made the bold decision to move to Hana, Hawaii, a place that had always captured his heart. The peaceful beauty of the area, along with the sense of connection to the land, drew him in. Hana became his home, and he embraced the slow-paced, nature-infused lifestyle that the island community offered. It was here in Hana that Glen truly thrived, making an even greater impact on the people around him.
He became involved in a number of local projects focused on environmental sustainability and conservation. Glen’s knowledge, wisdom, and hands-on approach to caring for the land made him a trusted figure in the Hana community. Whether he was helping local farmers, volunteering at the Hana Community Center, or simply lending a hand to a neighbor, Glen was always ready to offer his expertise and support.
His generosity of spirit was evident in everything he did, and his love for Hana’s people was as deep as his love for its natural beauty. In addition to his work in conservation, Glen was an active participant in the cultural and social life of Hana. He loved the island’s close-knit community, and he cherished the friendships he made over the years. Glen’s infectious sense of humor, his gentle kindness, and his willingness to listen made him a beloved figure in Hana.
He was known for his genuine interest in others, his ability to make everyone feel seen and heard, and his capacity to offer a thoughtful perspective on any topic. Glen’s presence in the community was felt deeply, and his absence will leave a void that cannot easily be filled. Though Glen found great fulfillment in his professional and community life, his greatest pride and joy were his family.
Glen was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Linda, whom he married in 1982. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Linda was not only his partner in life but also his best friend, confidante, and the person who supported him through every challenge and triumph. Their bond was one of deep love and mutual respect, a partnership that was the foundation of Glen’s happiness.
Glen and Linda had two children, Sarah and Adam, who were the apples of his eye. As a father, Glen was everything a child could hope for: loving, patient, and wise. He instilled in his children a deep sense of responsibility for the world around them, and he was always there to offer guidance, support, and a listening ear. Glen’s love for his children was boundless, and he took great joy in watching them grow into the thoughtful, caring individuals they are today.
In addition to his children, Glen was a proud grandfather to three beautiful grandchildren, who filled his heart with joy. Glen’s love for his grandchildren was evident in every moment spent with them. He loved sharing stories, teaching them about the natural world, and simply enjoying their company. His legacy of love, compassion, and stewardship of the earth will continue through them.
In the last years of his life, Glen faced a battle with illness that tested his strength and resilience. Despite the physical challenges he encountered, Glen’s spirit remained strong. He faced his diagnosis with the same courage and determination that had marked his life. Glen continued to find peace in the simple joys of life: the beauty of Hana’s beaches, the warmth of family gatherings, and the connection he shared with his beloved community.
Even in his final days, Glen remained a beacon of light for those who knew him, offering words of wisdom and encouragement to all who visited him. His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and community, but Glen’s legacy of love, service, and environmental stewardship will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness. Glen’s life was one of quiet but profound impact.
He may not have sought the spotlight, but his actions spoke volumes about the kind of person he was: a compassionate, thoughtful, and loving man who lived to make the world a better place. A celebration of Glen’s life will take place on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Hana Community Center. The service will include personal stories, reflections, and a tribute to Glen’s legacy of love and service.
Family and friends will gather to share memories, honor his life, and find comfort in the knowledge that Glen’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved him. Glen is survived by his loving wife Linda, his daughter Sarah and her husband Daniel, his son Adam and his wife Emily, and his grandchildren Ava, Caleb, and Isaac. He is also survived by his siblings, nieces, nephews, and many cherished friends who will miss him dearly.
In honor of Glen’s passion for the environment and his desire to make the world a better place, his family has requested that donations be made to the Hana Community Foundation or an environmental conservation charity of your choice in his memory.
Glen Bruce Simkins will always be remembered for his selflessness, his dedication to preserving the natural world, and the love he shared with those around him. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him to live with kindness, compassion, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Rest in peace, Glen. Your memory will live on in the hearts of your family, friends, and the community you loved so dearly.
