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BORN

1947

DIED

2025

Glenn Tonnesen Obituary

Glenn Lorin Tonnesen

1947-2025

Glenn L Tonnesen died on the third of June, 2025. He was fond of saying he wanted to run out of wine, heartbeats & money all at the same time; he did not get his wish. He leaves behind a well stocked wine cellar as well as his wife, Meredith, son Brad, daughter Sarah, five grandchildren, and three sisters. Born September 15, 1947 in Salt Lake City to Martha Culp Tonnesen and Chester Lorin Tonnesen, Glenn was at heart, a Utah man.

Glenn had many interests; he was a serial hobbyist (cameras, leathercraft, watches, helicopters, tae kwon do, microscopes), a collector of many things, and an inventor. He also had passions that he pursued his entire life: woodworking, reading, antiques, and wine.

Glenn was proficient in many areas and he valued proficiency and a strong work ethic. In high school, he won the Sterling Scholar award, was a National Merit Scholar and an Eagle Scout and was an active participant in Demolay and the Christ Methodist Church bell ringers. After graduation from Brown University and Utah University Medical school, Glenn served as a Navy doctor. After the Navy, he joined Radiation Oncology Associates at Fairfax Hospital in Virginia, where he practiced for 32 years,14 as chairman. He loved working with patients and often said "I can't believe they pay me to do this!"

Glenn retired to New Hampshire in 2014, where he spent time enjoying Lake Winnipesaukee, taking guests and his family for evening cruises in his wooden boat, puttering in his workshop and reading to his heart's content.

Glenn was a kind man, an optimist, a gracious host, and a man who could never pass up a good deal. When interviewed for the local paper as a high school graduate, Glenn's dreams for the future were traveling to Europe and affording a really nice car. He led a fulfilled life and his dreams were realized.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune, The Salt Lake Tribune from Jul. 4 to Jul. 13, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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Gabe Agyei

Yesterday

I worked with GT at Inova Fairfax Hospital Radiation Oncology Department for years. He gave me this plant and vase and asked me to take care of it, and I have. I will always have a piece of him with me when I look at the antique. The last I saw the great Dr. Tonnesen as I always called him, was at a retirement party for physicist colleague Dave George, he said I'm not sure about great, because my hearing is not so great anymore and we laughed, but he looked amazing. I will miss him dearly, he was a great mind, a leader, teacher, and a mentor. May his soul Rest well in the Lord.

Dick Giauque

July 13, 2025

The name Lorin came originally from my dad Lorin Giauque. He and my mom Irene were fishing, poker, bridge etc. buddies of "Uncle Chet and Aunt Ede" Tonnesen for,as long as I can remember. I always thought that Roger and Lorin were "cousins", because of the long and close relationship of our parents.
Glenn sounds like a terrific person...wish we had known him...best to the family he leaves.

Kay Howells

July 11, 2025

The Tonnesen family and I were neighbors in Holladay. Glenn was already out of the area but I got to know him as he and Meredith returned for visits. He was part of a wonderful family and I feel for the loss to his sisters.

Craig Stevenson

July 10, 2025

My sincere condolences to the family. Glenn was a wonderful person.

Ann (Smith) Green

July 10, 2025

Glenn and I lived across the street from each other. He was my oldest, longtime childhood playmate. Our families were inseparable, we shared many fun times, endless birthday parties, bridge club swim parties and much more. My family moved to the Millcreek area when I was in the First Grade. Shortly after that, the Tonnesen's moved just blockes from us so we could continue the strong bond our families shared. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during these rough times. Rest in peace my dear friend, Glenn.

josh oppenheim

July 10, 2025

Glenn was a great colleague. We shared several patients with head and neck cancer and he always made time to discuss the cases so we could provide the best care possible. His great caring for his patients was very evident, and so many patients asked me about him after he left Fairfax. They always say how much they liked him. He always made me feel like I was his favorite doctor too.

Angesom Gebrekidan

July 9, 2025

Dr. Tonnesen was a great doctor and an amazing human being. I remember my very 1st clinical rotation started with doctor Tonnesen, using old school simulator. An excellent teacher and mentor, Simply the best. I am sad to hear his passing. May God rest his soul in heaven. My deepest condolence to the entire Glenn Family.

Single Memorial Tree

Mary Sue and Jim Just

Planted Trees

Single Memorial Tree

Mary Sue and Jim Just

Planted Trees

Mary Sue Just

July 9, 2025

I just wanted to add when I was going through breast cancer treatments at Fairfax he was so encouraging and kind to both me and my husband

Mary Sye Jyst

July 9, 2025

So sorry to hear this. He was a great guy I worked with him in Fairfax . So sorry for your loss

Naveed Iqbal

July 8, 2025

I will always remember Dr. Tonnesen for the positive attitude and the care he provided for his patients . You will be deeply missed

Bea Catbay

July 8, 2025

I worked with GT( as we fondly called him at work ) in Radiation Oncology Department at INOVA Fairfax Hospital for so long . He has impeccable bedside manner , willing to teach you all about radiation therapy and its side effects, he loves his patients and oh boy his patients loved him back . I remember one of his patients called him George Clooney . It was always a pleasure working with him . I remember him fondly talking about his fun experiences going to the pawn shop and Costco.. Thank you GT for sharing with me the passion and loving what you love to do .. As I told you before you have the most brilliant mind of a Radiation Oncologist and it´s my pleasure working and knowing you . Rest in eternal peace... I missed you already.. Bea Catbay , RN BSN

Alan Eastman

July 4, 2025

Glenn and I were friends in Junior High, and followed much the same path, though I ended up in chemistry rather than medicine. I wish we had had more time to talk with each other and share retirement hobbies! He was a good friend and a good person - he will be missed.

Dayna N Madsen

July 4, 2025

My mother and Glenn's mother were in the same bridge club many years ago. I have many fond memories. Swimming parties, etc. I am sorry to hear about your loss. May you be comforted in knowing so many people are thinking of you at this time.

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