Glen Takahashi Obituary

TAKAHASHI, GLEN Glen Takahashi, our loving son, husband, father, brother, uncle, and loyal friend, passed away after a long battle with heart disease, on December 31, 2008, at the age of 59. The son of Howard and Hesaa Takahashi, Glen was born in San Diego and raised in Spring Valley, where he was a 1967 graduate of Monte Vista High. Glen is survived by his wife, Pam; daughter, Chelsea Taka-hashi and son, Branden Takahashi; mother, Hesaa Takahashi; brother, Howard Jr. (Eileen), sisters, Loni Schuder (Will) and Diane Tobin (Steve), and many nieces and nephews. An icon in local prep wrestling, Glen's coaching career spanned 36 years, beginning at University of San Diego High School, continuing at El Cajon Valley and, from 1983 through 2005, at Valhalla, where his teams won 12 San Diego Section championships, and, in 1985, the Cal State Championships. He received a lifetime service award by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, and he was inducted into the California Wrestling Hall of Fame. Always a source of knowledge and inspiration, Glen contributed genuinely to the development and welfare of many. Glen was an outstanding high school wrestler; in 1966 he was Prep Wrestler of the Year. As a collegian, at BYU, he won the 1970 W.A.C. championship. In addition to coaching his children's youth sports teams, Glen's hobbies included hunting, diving and fishing (his 12-pound, 11-ounce rainbow trout was a Poway Lake record-setter in 2007). A Memorial Service is scheduled for Sunday, January 11th, at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Chapel, 9400 Campo Road, Spring Valley, CA 91977. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Glen Takahashi Memorial Scholarship Fund, Point Loma Community Bank, 1350 Rosecrans St., San Diego, CA 92106. Conrad Lemon Grove Mortuary 619-460-4601.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Jan. 6, 2009.
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I did not know Glen personally, only saw him at wrestling matches and tournaments. I, and all of us at Grossmont, were in awe of him. Besides being the Bruce Lee of wrestling, he seemed like a real gentleman. Late as it is, I'm sorry to hear of his passing. Lots of us will never forget him.

Ross Merrill

Acquaintance

June 27, 2020

I am saddened to learn of the passing of Glen, my caring thoughts go out to his family. I was friends with Glen through the early years of school, Spring Valley Elementry, Bancroft and SV Jr High. I always recall very clearly that Glen was one of those rare people, a true friend to all, and why, after all these years I retain such fond memories.

My best to his family.

Tom Rau

February 5, 2009

I first met Glen when he coached at USD high school in the early '70s and I wrestled for rival Kearny High. He must have been a great coach because I could never beat his wrestler D. Sesma even after three tries. I continued to follow Glen's coaching career over the years and was not surprised by his phenomenal success. The wrestling community has lost a truly fine coach and an even better human being. God speed Glen.

Ken Roebuck

January 24, 2009

Coach Takahashi will always be remembered and missed. I had Coach 20 years ago for P.E at Valhalla High. He was alway such a nice man, and an inspiration.
May Peach Be With You All At This Time.

Swan Rishel-Rochford

January 23, 2009

Pam,
My sincerest sympathy to you and your children.
I first knew Glen in Cub Scouts and on your wedding day, I remember your happiness. His memory will always be with us.

Bob Sandoval

January 18, 2009

As Wally Wallace's niece, I have heard about Glen, his best friend, all of my life from my mother and my uncle. Reading about his life has reminded me of what a wonderful and special person he was. I pray that time and love will help all of you through this difficult time.

Angie Shipp Barwick

Angie BARWICK

January 16, 2009

Dear Takahashi family,

Our condolences to all of you with loving thoughts of my "Baby Brother", Wally's best friend Glen.

Sue Wallace Shipp
and
"Dr Bill" too

Sue Shipp

January 16, 2009

Pam, Branden and Chelsea;
We are so very sorry to hear of Glen's passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. It was an honor to have coached Little League All Stars with him and to observe and enjoy his coaching of the Crusaders soccer team. I (and everyone else) had the utmost respect for Glen. We will remain forever grateful to have had the opportunity to have known him. May God bless you and give you peace now, and always.
Tom, Sheri, Matt and Devyn Smith

Tom Smith

January 16, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of Coach's passing. He was an extradionary person and I know he will be missed by many.

Tanya Aguilar (Murillo)

January 15, 2009

My deepest condolances to the Takahashi family and to all of his wrestlers over the years. He will be sadly missed. Coach Takahashi was my freshman PE teacher but my memory of him will always be his voice over the loud speaker at VHS home football games. If any warrior deserves his place in Valhalla, it is Coach Takahashi. The way he touched lives is unfathomable.

Liz Thomas

January 15, 2009

Takahashi Family,
My deepest condolences are with all those who are affected with the loss of Coach Takahashi. I was a matt maid/wrestling manager for him in the late seventies. I will always remember his deep dedication to all his students. He was always sincere and open to listen. I am sure he will be greatly missed.

Carolyn Wells

January 14, 2009

Dear Takahashi Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all for your loss. I was a student and TA of Coach's and a Mat Maid for the wrestling team in the 70's and at ECVHS. He was one of my favorite teachers and people. He was a gentle soul and will truly be missed. God Bless.

Rene' Combs (Pudil)

January 14, 2009

I will always remember him as Coach. There was something special in him that I will never experience again in my lifetime. His philosophies are ingrained in my mind always. I feel honored to have wrestled with him and want to thank him for sharing with me a part of my grandfather that I didn't get a chance to see from him-the amazing way a teacher/mentor/coach can touch lives and make a world of difference to so many people. I love you Coach, I'm going to miss you terribly.

Flint Olsen

January 13, 2009

I was extremely sorry to hear of Glen's passing. Although I haven't seen him since 1966, I can never forget him. His energy, enthusiam, intelligence and skill were a motivating force in what success we had as a team and as individuals on the mat. It was evident to me that from the nature of the assemblage at his funeral and the outpouring of emotions there, his life was well-lived. If there is a Valhalla, he's there now.

Bill Guiette

January 13, 2009

I may have lost a friend, but I will always have the memorys . See you again when the time is right"on the road again"

Cathy Smith-Haring

January 12, 2009

To the Takahashi Family,

My children and I would like to send our deepest sympathy. We were sad to hear of Glen's passing. He was way too young to have left you.

My ex-husband Jack had many memories of growing up with the Takahashi family and had deepest respect for them all.

I had started working at Valhalla and it was nice to see Glen and talk of the latest news of our families. He had such a calming personality and was so easy to talk to.

Please accept our sincere sympathy.

Carole Nielsen,
Hugh, Sheri and Clint Nielsen

Carole Nielsen

January 12, 2009

I played a bit part in Glen's life by serving up the first home run he hit in little league. It was no small feat in that he was ten years old and the smallest player in the league.

I didn't understand it at the time but something impelled me to meet him between short and third and congratulate him. I never did that before or after in any form of competition, and it took me years to realize that I had simply respected him too much as a person to fail to acknowledge his achievement. Later his sister Lonnie became a dear friend of mine before I moved away in 1963.

I have come to believe that quality trumps quantity in life, and I hope all who loved Glen receive some solace from realizing that he lived a very consequential life. Fifty-nine probably seems young to those of us who are past that milestone, but many years from now, Glen's footprints will still be in the sand.

David Johnson

January 12, 2009

Coach Takahashi was more than a coach. He had a real connection with the students who were lucky to learn from him. He opened his home to everyone and he even took us skiing. I will always remember my first day ever skiing in Big Bear with the wrestling team from Valhalla. We got a late start, but Coach lead us down the bunny trail and set us loose on the mountain. What a great day that was. His smile and enthusiasm was contagious. To this day whenever I watch a wrestling match I can see him at the sidelines twisting and turning; hanging on every move being made on the mat, and I catch myself doing the same thing. His focus was unbreakable. He was more than a coach he was a like a father figure in many ways. A true inspiration and he will be sadly missed.

Jeff Fleming

January 11, 2009

Dear Pam and Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time in your lives. I graduated with Glen from Monte Vista High and I am so glad that we were all together at our 40 year reunion. I will always remember Glen as a devoted friend and caring about everyone he met in his journey through life. He was a true role model. Your beautiful memories of him will live forever. God bless you and your family. Respectfully, Deborah Kaye-Appel.

Deborah Kaye-Appel

January 11, 2009

Pam,

I was one of the lucky ones to be embraced by your whole family while I was in High School. Graduating from ECVHS in 1982, some of my best memories are wrapped around time spent in Coach T's class, camping with all of you for Mat Maids, some travel for wrestling meets, and so much more. You have a wonderful family. Thank you for letting so many people be a part of it over the years. What a gift! And Glen... what a legacy!

Sandy Bird

January 11, 2009

We extend our deepest sympathy to all of Glen's family. He was a wonderful, sensitive person who will be remembered forever by the friends, students, and colleagues who knew him.
Robyn and Bill Streshly

William Streshly

January 11, 2009

Coach Takahashi was the best! He made my high school years memorable.Darrin and I often talk about what a wonderful person he was and how he made a big influence on our lives. He will always be remembered and live in our hearts.

Rebecca Smith

January 10, 2009

Pam, Chelsea, Brandon and Family,

Kris and I send our heartfelt condolences. Glen was one of those very rare special men who seemed to have touched so many lives. All who knew Glen are thankful for their time with him. Glen was superb at balancing strength and peacefulness. Glen's life was and will always be an example for anyone who would like to lead a humble life while being a positive influence to some many people. We feel privileged to have known Glen and trust the many fond memories will help each of you during this difficult time.

Mike & Kris Irving

January 10, 2009

To the Takahashi Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of Glen. Although it has been decades since I knew him, I saw his photo in the paper and immediately recalled his warm smile, good humor and great heart and concern for his students. Glen invited me to speak to his classes many times when I worked as a public health educator for Planned Parenthood in the late 1970's. He wanted to be sure his students had accurate information and the ability to make good choices to avoid disease and unplanned pregnancies. He was always upbeat and had a great relationship with his students. Seeing his smiling face instantly took me back to those days. Over the decades working for PP and in HIV/AIDS for the County of SD Health Services, I have spoken to thousands of people, and have forgotten many who invited me, but his essence was firmly ingrained in my memory. Reading the many tributes in this guest book indicates what wonderful work he did with students and what a good role model he was for many. While his life was too short, he really made a difference here on earth. May God bless those who loved him with good memories and peace.
Christine Burcham Cunning, M.P.H.

Christine Cunning

January 10, 2009

Mrs. T and family,
I was so sorry to learn of the loss of our beloved Coach T. I remember him to be such humble, caring man who put others before himself. I was blessed to be an assistant in his class my Senior year along with heading up the Mat maids in 1980 at ECVHS and he had such an impact on the rest of my life. Now I only regret not making an effort to connect when I've been in SD to personally tell him thanks. My prayers are with your family, peace be with you!

Diane Vaughn-Young

January 9, 2009

As a former member of the Championship Wrestling Teams at Monte Vista High School, I would like to offer my condolence to Glen's family, He was one of the most talented,dedicated and committed athletes I have ever had the pleasure to know. God Bless.

Gary Gilbert

January 9, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the Takahashi family in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Glen was an exceptional leader on and off the mat. His legacy as a wrestler, coach, teacher, and community leader will live on forever.

Robert Ito

January 9, 2009

To the Takahashi Family,
My son, Frank Millsap, was fortunate enough to wrestle for Monte Vista High School and there were some wonderful matches between Valhalla and M.V. Coach Takahashi was always there, inspiring his wrestlers. I know he inspired my son from the other side of the mat and I am thankful to say that I had the pleasure of knowing this wonderful human being. He will be missed by many. God bless you all and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Respectfully, Patty Millsap

Patty Millsap

January 8, 2009

Having heard the news of Glen's passing while at dinner on New Year's Eve, brought me to tears in an instant. He was my childhood friend since age 12 in Jr High, then High School, as was Pam also. It hit me hard. After he retired, he stopped by the travel agency many times and we always had a wonderful conversation. I am so happy that you were both able to take the cruise last summer, which I know was questionable because of Glen's health.
My sincere condolences to you and your children Pam. I can't imagine how tough these days have been for all of you. My heart and prayers are with you. Hang on to all those great memories. He was a very special human being and loved by so many.
God Bless You,
With love...Annie

Annie Sandora Farr

January 8, 2009

Dearest Pam,

Although we did not keep in contact after high school I'm very thankful we were all together at our 40th class reuinion.
At times like this it's difficult to find the right words to help comfort you and your family. From the bottom of my heart I offer you my deepest sympathy and pray the Good Lord gives you and your family the strength necessary as you go through these most difficult times. I cannot express how very sorry I am for your loss.

Lu Jean Mayo (Peters)

January 8, 2009

Glen was a great coach and team builder. I was privileged to have my son Jon participate in a youth soccer team in the late 80's. I will never forget Glen's skill and patience with the little guys, and his ability to give them an unbeaten season. He will be missed, but he left a positive legacy carried on by all the kids he influenced.

Milton Takahashi

January 8, 2009

Pam, Chelsea, Branden,
I'm so sorry about Coach. He was so special to me when I was in high school and throughout the years. He was always willing to talk and help. I feel priviledged to have known such a great man. You and your family will always have a special place in my heart.
Love an repect,
Carla Bailey-Sorilla

Carla Sorilla

January 8, 2009

Brian and I are so sad to hear about Coach Takahashi. He truly was an amazing man. He coached Brian to the "infamous" Valhalla 1985 Championships. What a blessing to have known him. Our condolences to you Pam and your family. We will pray for peace in your heart.

Missy James

January 7, 2009

We only met Glen once and didn't get to know him, but from all we've read he was a very special person. Our sincerest condolences to all his family and friends of which there is an abundance.

Jan and Mike Standerfer

January 7, 2009

Coach Takahashi was a great influence in my life while I was a student at ECVHS. He was like a father to me during my most trying times in high school. He would talk me through problems and give me advice when I asked for it. I have seen him a few times throughout the years because my nephews went to Valhalla and he seemed like he was the same as he had always been - friendly, happy, and still a great adviser. My condolences to Mrs. Takahashi, their children and the remainder of the Takahashi family.

Lori Krueger (Moss)

January 7, 2009

Dear Takahashi Family,
I knew Coach T from High School. He was one of my favorite teachers while at El Cajon. God bless you all in your time. Coach will be missed. I am glad to have known such a wonder teacher.

Debbie Meza/Oster

January 7, 2009

Through our association with Glen at Valhalla (Nick through athletics, Debbi through PTA, Alli through Mat Mates, & Carri through class & sports), we all remember him fondly as an amazing man. It was an honor to know him.

We send our deepest sympathy to the family.

Nick, Debbi, Alli, Carri Leto

January 7, 2009

To the Takahashi family my sincerest condolences on the loss of this great man. Glen was an amazing mentor and devoted coach and I am saddened to hear that he is no longer with us.

Mark Kunac

January 7, 2009

Coach Takahashi was a very kind and inspiring mentor to me through my high school years. I am sad to hear of his loss, but I hope it's known that what he gave to so many others will live forever.

Brett Wagner

January 6, 2009

Dear Pam and kids,

Pam, I knew you in high school and I knew Glen well through Pete Mallory. Then, my stepson (Chad Scialabba) wrestled for Valhalla in his Freshman year. My wife and I were just talking tonight about how Glen spotted me in the crowd at a meet at Santana and encouraged us to keep Chad in the program. He saw great potential. Though Chad got out of wrestling, the impact of knowing you and Glen and the fact that Glen took the time to talk to us about Chad, only endeared him to me even more. It was year's ago, but what a conversation! Pam, I can't even fathom what you are going through. I remember when Chelsea was born. Unfortunately, I never got to know her or your son. But, if they were raised by you and Glen, I figure they are exceptional kids. Though I haven't seen you in years, please know that my heart is breaking for you and your kids. Coach T was way too young. When Chad was in high school and Glen collapsed on the track that day, I couldn't believe it. How could this happen to such a man who was in the shape that he was in? Obviously, God had other plans. I just want you to know that though I haven't seen you in years, my memories are good ones. I wish you all god's peace in dealing with your grief. Please know that there are a lot of ECVHS alumni that are shedding tears. Though I played my own sports, my best times in high school were the wrestling matches between ECVHS and Monte Vista. They year we beat them is one of my greatest sports moments ever! What a memory! What a great man! I only hope that in time Glen's philosophy on life, competition, and his diligence in being the best that he could be will bring you solace. God bless You and your family as you go through these difficult times.

Sincerely,

Brad Gallion

Brad Gallion

January 6, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Takahashi family.
Jerry & Beth Yakel

Jerry & Beth Yakel

January 6, 2009

What a shock... not many better men than Glen... our prayers for comfort and peace are with you.

Rev. Clyde Harvey GHS'70

January 6, 2009

I send my deepest condolences to the Takahashi family. I was Coach Takahashi’s student in both the classroom and on the wrestling mat. He made a positive impact in my life. Almost 23 years after my last wrestling match; I still consider his lessons on discipline, intensity and fair play a bedrock upon which I live my life. I know he was and will continue to be a role model for many people. I am a better person for having been associated with such a fine man.

Bob Brust

January 6, 2009

Pam & Family,
Was so shocked to hear about Glen passing and now so glad we had the 40th reunion when we did. Remember
Glen & Pam in high school and how much fun we all had. He will be missed more then words can say.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL !!!!

Bev & Roy Austin/Tuck

January 6, 2009

Coach Takahashi was my 9th grade P.E. coaxh and my 10th grade health sciences teacher as well. I was a senior when he collapsed nearly 20 years ago and was glad to see that he made it back in time for me to say good-bye at graduation.

My deepest condolences to all. He will be missed and remembered

Ed Kasprzycki

January 6, 2009

It was very sad to hear of Glen's passing. As a wrestler at Monte Vista in 1964 & 65, I have fond memories of good times spent with the Takahashis and some tough wrestling times on the mat with Glen. Best wishes to all the family.

Robert Hamilton

January 6, 2009

I was saddened to read of the passing of Glen. My sincere sympathy goes out to his family. In 1967 I was a freshman at Monte Vista HS and Glen was senior, a big time wrestler and an all around nice guy. I recall seeing him wrestle under Coach Bill Clauder many times. Glen was an amazing athlete and always had a smile on his face. God speed Glen.

Deborah Fielder-Loughran

January 6, 2009

To Pam and all the Takahashi clan, my heart-felt condolences. I was shaken when I heard of Glen’s passing. Though we had not kept in touch since shortly after Monte Vista, Glen has always been vivid in my memories as one of the few truly outstanding people in my life. I was aware of his accomplishments in his career indirectly through mutual acquaintances but know that he always brought his “A” game to whatever he did. Please know that throughout his life he was loved by many and we will sorely miss him.

Paul Seeley

January 6, 2009

It would take forever to recall all of the great times we had growing up together. He was the best friend a person could have and his family, well their just the greatest.

Wally Wallace

January 6, 2009

Both Glen and Pam were driving forces in our lives during and after high school. We hate to think what our lives would amounted to if we hadn't been blessed by knowing them and loving them. We will miss you.

nancy & sandra cota

January 6, 2009

Glen, Loni, my brother Mike and myself all went to school at Bancroft Elementary and Spring Valley Junior High School. Although not in the same class year as Glen, he was unforgettable as being so cheerful and easy going. Over the years, I was delighted to hear of his success in wrestling and coaching. I'm saddened by the loss of such a vital person.
I was a class mate of Loni and like Glen I remember her as personality plus!! I wish Loni and family my most sincere condolences.

Allan Wake

January 6, 2009

I was so sorry to hear about Glen. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I knew you all at Vista La Mesa Christian Church many years ago. May God bless you and hold you in God's loving comfort.

Cynthia J. Wright

January 6, 2009

Pam and the rest of the Takahashi family my sincerest condolences on the loss of this humble and fine man. He will be greatly missed.

Duane Sesma

January 6, 2009

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