Glenn Frederick Ison

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Glenn possessed a unique and witty personality with many layers, always ready with a clever remark or an insightful observation.

Glenn Frederick Ison, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Union, Kentucky, on August 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 25, 1948, in Great Lakes, Illinois, Glenn’s extraordinary life was marked by dedication to his family, his career, and his many passions.

Glenn’s educational journey led him from Emporia State in Emporia, Kansas, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree, to the University of Kentucky, where he earned a Master’s degree in Social Work. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a fulfilling and impactful career.

For more than 42 years, Glenn devoted himself to the insurance industry, where he was known as a hardworking insurance claims adjuster and mediator. One of Glenn's favorite sayings was, "You should see me in a courtroom". He dedicated 29 of those years to the Great American Insurance Company in Cincinnati, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Beyond his work in insurance, Glenn’s entrepreneurial spirit shone as the CEO of Ison Sports Marketing Company—a testament to his multi-faceted talents and drive.

Glenn possessed a unique and witty personality with many layers, always ready with a clever remark or an insightful observation. He exuded warmth and sincerity, and those close to him treasured his company and his humor. Glenn’s ability to negotiate was legendary within his family; some of his proudest accomplishments included skillfully negotiating car purchases both for himself and loved ones.

Beyond his career, Glenn’s adventurous spirit was evident in his many travels. He visited all 50 states, earning membership in the prestigious All 50 Club. A lifelong fan of the Atlanta Braves, Glenn relished every moment of baseball season. He also indulged a whimsical side as an avid collector of M&M memorabilia, delighting in his collection and the joy it brought.

Glenn’s legacy also extends to his profound commitment to service. He was a strong advocate for the LGBTQ community in Cincinnati, selflessly volunteering countless hours in support of inclusivity and equality. His compassion touched many lives, and his advocacy served as an inspiration to all who knew him.

Family was always at the center of Glenn’s world. He is survived by his wife, Jan (nee VanLiew) Ison; his daughters Vicki Brown, Holly Ison, and Amanda Ison; his granddaughters Elizabeth Rhianon Brown and Christy Brown; his brother James Ison and sister-in-law Kathy Ison; his sisters Mary Ison and Jean Rice; brother-in-law Ben Maeley; son-in-law Jason Brown; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom cherished his guidance, stories, and support.

Special memories abound, from working sports card shows together to the patient, humorous hours spent teaching his daughters how to drive and imparting them with his trademark “coasting” techniques—always thinking of how to make life a little easier and more memorable. These precious moments will remain deeply etched in the hearts of his loved ones.

Glenn was preceded in death by his father, Lee Ison; his mother, Maraget Ison; and his brother-in-law, David Rice.

Family, friends, and all those whose lives Glenn touched are invited to pay their respects during visitations on August 24, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Alliance Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 7816 Dixie Hwy, Florence, KY; and on August 25, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 144 Buttermilk Pike, Lakeside Park, KY. A funeral service will follow at noon, with interment at Highland Cemetery, 2167 Dixie Highway, Fort Mitchell, KY, at 1:00 PM.

Glenn Frederick Ison’s life was defined by unwavering integrity, generosity, and boundless love for his family and community. He will be remembered dearly and missed profoundly.