Kent Russell Glaus

Kent Russell Glaus passed away December 20, 2012.

He was born in Akron on April 27, 1954 to Cordell and the late Lois Glaus. Kent was a graduate of Walsh Jesuit High School and went on to pursue his undergraduate degree from Kent State University. He obtained his Ph.D. from Ohio State University in Molecular Genetics and began his career with PPG Industries in Pittsburg, PA. After several years, he ventured in a new direction and became co-founder with his parents and brother, Gary of Portage Hills Vineyards in Suffield, Ohio, where he was chief enologist.

Later Kent became aware that he possessed a strong desire to teach and his next career path led him to a teaching position at St. Matthew’s School in Akron. After leaving St. Matthew’s, he soon realized that his love of education and teaching remained strong and he decided to return to the educational profession. His most recent professional endeavor led him to the university level where he was Founding Director of the Enology and Viticulture program at Kent State University, Ashtabula Campus. In the end, Kent became a student of his disease. He was very involved in learning the scientific aspect of his disease and treatment.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Janet; son, Adam (Heather); daughter, Melissa (Ben) Spencer; father, Cordell (Henrietta); brother, Gary (Cheri); sister, Diane (Doug) Rice; special nieces, nephews and friends. A memorial mass will be held Friday 9:30 a.m. at St. Hilary Parish, 2750 W. Market Street, Fairlawn, Ohio 44333 with Father Steven Brunovsky and Father Milton celebrating. There will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St. Hilary Parish.