Neil George Glenesk Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Col. Neil George Glenesk, aged 72, on December 10, 2024. Neil passed away peacefully with loved ones close in Tacoma, Washington.
Neil was born on September 26, 1952, in Flushing, New York, and lived a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and purpose. From a young age, Neil demonstrated an extraordinary ability to excel in every passion he pursued. He was an excellent student, a gifted photographer, a talented musician, and a skilled craftsman. However, it was his love and success in sports that shaped much of his life.
After graduation from high school Neil attended Chico State University. While at Chico, Neil ran Cross-Country and was a member of the Wildcats’ Swim Team becoming a NCAA Division II champion. At the age of 19, Neil discovered the sport of Modern Pentathlon, an Olympic discipline since 1912 that combines fencing, equestrian, pistol shooting, swimming, and running. With characteristic dedication and determination, Neil began training in all five disciplines. After college graduation he joined the Army as Pvt 1st Class Glenesk as a member of the Army’s athlete corps, which supported his rigorous training and athletic career. Neil quickly rose to prominence, proudly representing the United States in international competitions for many years. In 1978, in Jonkoping, Sweden, he made history as the first American to medal in the Modern Pentathlon World Championships.
During his time in the Army at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, Neil met the love of his life, Patricia Thompson (Pat). The two were married in 1980 in San Antonio and soon welcomed two daughters, Kimberly and Katie, into their lives. Neil embraced fatherhood with joy and devotion, earning the affectionate title of "Super Dad." He deeply loved his family and worked tirelessly every day to be the best husband and father a man could be.
In 1980, Neil also embarked on a new journey, using the GI Bill to attend UC Berkeley's School of Optometry. He graduated with honors in 1984, combining his love of science with his passion for helping others. Neil continued to serve in the U.S. Army as an optometrist, with postings in Germany, Korea, and numerous military bases across the United States.
During the Gulf War in 1990, Neil served as the Army’s optometrist on the front lines with the 1st Armored Division providing dedicated care to his fellow service members. His commitment to his country and profession was unwavering, eventually rising to the rank of Colonel and becoming the head of the Army’s Optometry Division at the Pentagon. As Chief of Army Optometry, Neil made lasting contributions to military healthcare. He was instrumental in the creation of the Vision Center of Excellence, a program that advocates for research and treatment in the field of military optometry. He also helped coordinate the Military Combat Eye Protection program and played a key role in the development of the "G-Eyes" optometric system, which advanced eye care for military personnel.
Neil’s lifetime achievements reflect his dedication and excellence. A few recognitions are: the Armed Forces Optometric Society Orion Award, induction into the Chico State University Sports Hall of Fame, doctorate and masters degrees, numerous military awards, a 1st place finish in the USA Triathlon Nationals (swimming, running, shooting), and many awards and achievements in international Modern Pentathlon Championships. These accolades, along with his contributions to military medicine, illustrate the profound impact he had in both his professional and personal life.
Neil’s last military post brought him to Tacoma, Washington, where he and Pat decided to retire concluding his 35 year military career. He quickly fell in love with Tacoma’s rich history and stunning environment. Neil delighted in exploring all the Pacific Northwest has to offer and took great joy in creating a warm and welcoming home in Old Town Tacoma.
Neil’s younger brothers, Mark and Dean, take pride in saying, "If it were not for Neil, we would not be the people we are today. He was, and continues to be, a role model that we strive to emulate every day." His guidance, strength, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those closest to him.
In his later years, Neil began to experience cognitive and physical difficulties, which were diagnosed as Corticobasal Degeneration. During this time, he was surrounded by the tireless care, love, and support of his devoted wife, Pat, and daughters, Kimberly and Katie. While the challenges of life grew overwhelming, Neil was able to rest peacefully, knowing he was deeply loved and supported by his family.
Neil’s remarkable life was a testament to his perseverance, discipline, and passion for making a difference. Known for his warm heart, detailed storytelling, incredible sense of humor, and insatiable curiosity, Neil touched countless lives. Neil’s legacy of love, kindness, and unparalleled accomplishments will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Patricia (Pat); his daughters, Kimberly (Bill) and Katie (Dave); grandson, Silas; his brothers, Mark (Jennifer) and Dean (Agneta); and many other extended family members and friends. Neil was preceded in death by his older brother, Alan (Ronni), and his parents, Ernest and Hilda.
Neil will be interred at Tahoma National Cemetery. A celebration of Neil’s life will be held in the future. In lieu of flowers please think of Neil as you take “The Long Cut” which is a word for taking the adventurous route in your travels to help enjoy life’s large and little joys. Neil loved “The Long Cut”.
To view some of Neil’s Legacy Photos go to: http://tiny.cc
