David Main Glen

David Main Glen – devoted husband, stepdad, Papa, brother, uncle, friend – passed away peacefully at home in Mt. View, CA, on September 13, 2021. His wife Kathy, stepsons Michael and Matt and beloved Portuguese Water Dog Zeke were by his side. He was 79 years old. Dave’s contagious energy and strong will left a lasting impression on those who met and connected with him.

He enjoyed sharing his passions with his circle of lifelong friends and family - swinging a club on a golf course (Stanford was his favorite course, and he golfed from the age of seven well into his 70s), traversing the U.S. with Kathy and their Portuguese Water Dogs to dog shows in their motorhome, and zipping around in sports cars (he favored BMWs). Dave especially loved to travel, and he and Kathy were fortunate to be able to explore many countries on six continents. His curiosity for other cultures and humorous observations found their way into “travel blog” emails enjoyed by everyone who received them.

The same energy and loyalty Dave brought to his friendships, he also brought to his work. As a graduate of Stanford University, BA’64 in Economics and member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, he was especially proud and honored to serve his alma mater for over 35 years as a fundraiser, retiring as Associate Vice President for Development. He particularly enjoyed mentoring younger colleagues throughout their careers. Dave also served on the Foothill De Anza Community College Foundation Board and advised small nonprofits on development matters. Following early retirement in 2003, Dave and Kathy moved to Ashland, OR, where Dave served on the Board of Directors of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival for eight years.

Born to William and Margaret Glen, Dave’s roots were in San Diego, and he grew up nearby in La Mesa. He graduated from Helix High School before departing for Stanford, and he served in the Marine Corps Reserves for six years.

Dave is survived by his wife, Kathy Esslinger; two stepsons, Michael and Matt Esslinger; Matt’s wife Sara; three cherished grandchildren, Luke, Ben and Sydney Esslinger; his brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Rhodean Glen; his niece and nephew; and his constant canine companion, Zeke.

During the past few years, Dave faced multiple serious health issues with his usual determination, courage and grace. We thank Mission Hospice of San Mateo for the care they provided during these past several weeks.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Dave’s memory to Stanford University, Development Services, P.O. Box 20466, Stanford, CA 94309 (make checks payable to Stanford University “to support the research of Dr. Edward Damrose, School of Medicine”); Mission Hospice and Home Care, 66 Bovet Road, Suite 100, San Mateo, CA 94402; or SAGE Compassion for Animals, 650 Castro Street, Ste 120 #361, Mountain View, CA 94043. The family plans to hold a celebration of life for Dave at a future date.

-It