Hiram "Glenn" Gooch Jr., age 89, was born on his mother's birthday April 22, 1937 in Parsons, Kansas.He was baptized at an early age at First Baptist Church of Appleton City. He passed from this life to his forever eternity on June 17, 2026 surrounded by a special grandson Lamar Clark (Oregon) whom he considered his very own and his step-daughter Brenice Ferguson. He was under the care of Tranquility House Hospice unit at the VA Medical Center.
He was the beloved husband of Dr. Eleanor Gooch who never left his side for 49 years.
He was the son of the late Hiram Glenn Gooch Sr. and Velma Oza Myers Gooch. He was preceded in death by his brother Eugene Ray Gooch and brother-in-law Norman Keith Elmore.
Fond memories will be cherished by his sister, Mary Anne Elmore (Missouri), sister-in-law Sylvia Harmon (Maryland), nieces Dana Clark, her husband Dave Clark, with their children Grace, Conner, and Jackson (California); Karen Gooch Andrews, her husband Rev. Russell Andrews, children Eli and Mariana (Missouri). Special niece Blanche Cook (Martinsburg). Step-children Francine Anderson, Brenice Ferguson, and Edward Ferguson; 12 step-grandchildren and 17 step- great grand children. A special granddaughter Nikki Lincoln (Martinsburg), who he loved dearly.
He graduated from Appleton City High School and the University of Missouri where he obtained a Masters of Science Degree in social work. He was a lifetime member of the NRA as well as a member of SASS.
Glenn served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era and was stationed in Key West, Florida. During his military service, he also served as part of the military police, carrying out his duties with discipline and integrity. His time in uniform reflected the same sense of responsibility and calm resolve that would later define his professional life.
Following his military service, Glenn devoted 47 years of his career to the Martinsburg VAMC, where he worked as a social worker helping veterans. He was especially dedicated to those struggling with combat stress. He approached work with compassion, patience, and understanding. He was licensed in REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy), based on the Albert Ellis theory. He published an article in RET Medical Journal an how to apply RET to marital therapy. He applied his knowledge and experience to support countless veterans through difficult seasons of life. His colleagues and the many people he served knew him as a man of wisdom, empathy, and unwavering dedication.
Outside of his professional life, Glenn had a wide range of interest that reflected both his spirited personality and his appreciation for tradition. He was a gun enthusiast and an action shooter known by the alias "Hardrock Hiram". He was also an avid baker known for his cookies and cakes. He loved westerns and enjoyed attending western reenactments with his wife Eleanor. These interests brought him joy and gave him opportunities to share memorable experiences with those closest to him.
Those who knew Glenn will remember him a a gentle and intelligent man whose presence brought reassurance and warmth. He carried himself with humility and purpose and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was one of service, loyalty, and love. His legacy will continue through the family and the many lives he touched.
Glenn's passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those that loved him, but his memory will remain a source of comfort and pride. He will be remembered for not only what he accomplished, but also for the kindness, steadiness, and devotion he brought to every part of his life.
The family will receive friends on Monday, June 29, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Brown Funeral Home in Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Brown Funeral Home in Martinsburg, West Virginia with Rev. Dr. Michael Norris officiating.
Internment will be at Appleton City Cemetery in Appleton City, MO. on July 7. 2026 at 1:00 PM under the direction of Hill & Son Funeral Home, Appleton City, Missouri.
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