The Life of GLENN WEDDELL MCDOLE
Glenn "Mac" McDole, 88, passed away peacefully on September 3rd surrounded by his family and friends. Born February 6, 1921 to David and Dessa McDole, Glenn's extraordinary life was distinguished by exceptional courage, honor and service. He was, by definition, a true American hero. After attending Urbandale High School, Glenn felt a personal calling to serve, and in November of 1940, he joined the United States Marine Corp. After World War II broke out, Glenn was taken as a Prisoner of War on the island of Corregidor where he remind captive for almost three years. His experience during this time and his daring escape has been well documented through interviews, television appearances, motivational speeches throughout the world, as well as the subject of a book entitled "Last Man Out," by Bob Wilbanks. Following the War, Glenn was a key witness in the War Crimes Trials of 1945, received the Bronze Metal/Combat V for valor and combat heroism, and devoted his life to remembering and honoring all who have made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. In 1947, Glenn joined the Iowa State Patrol, stationed in Osceola, Storm Lake ,and Des Moines, where he ultimately retired in 1976 as Lieutenant. One year later, Glenn returned to service at the request of then Sheriff Bob Rice to serve as Chief of Patrol, heading up patrol and communications for the Polk County Sheriff's Office. Twelve years later, Glenn retired "again" making it 50 years of proud service to his country and community. Those who worked with Glenn will remember his as an honorable, loyal man with a generous smile and helping hand. Glenn shared over 60 years of his life with his beloved wife, Betty (Moody) McDole who passed away in June of 2008. Together, they had two daughters, Glenda (Galyn) Johnson of Ankeny and Kathy (Larry) Parkins of Alleman. Glenn also leaves three granddaughters, Michelle (Mike) Schroder, Heather (Viktor) Sanderson and Melissa Carter; six great grandchildren, Jacob and Jordon Sanderson, Ryan and Malorie Schroder, and Addison and Casen ("Little Mac") Carter. He is also survived by his sister, Dolores Moore of California, brother, Joe McDole and his wife, Gloria, of Florida and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews spread across the United States. Glenn was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, siblings, Max McDole, Colleen (LeRoy) Sexton, Margaret (Cam) Taylor and brother-in-law, Gene Moore. The family will cherish Glenn's memory and continue to be inspired by his amazing courage, strength and compassion. Throughout his life, Glenn was an active member of the community. He belonged to Highland Park Christian Church for 50 years where served as Deacon and Elder. He also was a 50-year member of the Auburn Masonic Lodge, Consistory and The Shrine. Glenn belonged to the Iowa States Sheriff's and Deputies Association, VFW, Elks, Iowa State Troopers Association, Iowa State Supervisors Association, Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor, and the Marine Corp Auxiliary. In his later years, Glenn enjoyed doing and reflecting on what he loved most - fishing, time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and of course, being a proud "always faithful" Marine. He will be missed by all who knew him and were touched by his amazing life. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, September 9, 2009, at 2 pm at Highland Park Christian Church in Des Moines, Iowa, with burial to follow at the Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. A visitation with family present will be from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Highland Park Christian Church or to the Iowa Veterans Honor Flight in loving memory of Glenn
