Joseph Glenwood Parsons, “Big Glen,” died peacefully on Jan. 30, 2007 in Mount Vernon, from congestive heart failure. Glen was born Sept. 12, 1931 in Brookline, Mo., to Esther Lois and William Clifford Parsons. After graduating from high school in 1949, Glen enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country faithfully during the Korean War.

He made Whidbey Island his home in 1953 and was employed as a journeyman welder and a well driller. His lifelong passion was to own his own tavern, and in 1986 he moved to Bow, Wash., and purchased the Corner Tavern. Glen was a member of the VFW and American Legion. He was the Commander of the American Legion Post in Oak Harbor from 1975 to 1976. He enjoyed growing tomatoes, feeding wild birds, gun collecting, and car racing.

For over 30 years, he was best known as “Big Glen” at the Skagit and Deming speedways where he welded and worked on race cars, operated the pit gates, raised the flags for the opening ceremonies, and helped in any way he could. Glen met many people during his lifetime, and enjoyed talking with each and every one of them.

Glen will be missed dearly by his loving partner of 25 years, Donna O’Brien of Bow, beloved son Charles A. Parsons of Everett, beloved daughters Lorraine M. Warren of Forest Grove, Ore., Carla K. Waite of Oak Harbor, six grandchildren, and his sister Marian Morris of Mesa, Ariz., and the many friends that he made along his way, who will also miss him dearly. God bless you Glen, for all the happiness and laughter that you bestowed on everyone. You will always be a part of us, in our hearts, mind and spirit.

A celebration of Glen’s life will be held at the American Legion Post located at 721 Fairhaven Ave., Burlington, on Saturday, Feb. 10, at p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of Affordable Burial & Cremation Services LLC of Mount Vernon. Cards of condolence may be sent to the family in care of the funeral home.