Tri-City Cremation Services - Kitchener 519-772-1237 Cambridge 519-267-7199
  • Home
  • About
  • Cremation
  • Burial
  • Preplanning
  • Grief Resources
  • Obituaries & Condolences
  • Contact

​

Glen Carruthers

12/24/2020

11 Comments

 
Picture
Glen Carruthers, former Dean of the Faculty of Music at Wilfrid Laurier University, died of cancer on December 24, 2020, at his home in Kitchener.

Loving and devoted husband, pianist, musicologist, administrator par excellence, friend to legions, natural born teacher and mentor to so many, lover of bourbon and trains, but above all a servant of music. He leaves behind his broken-hearted wife Heather; brothers Ken and Ross; sisters-in-law Carole, Jackie, and Sheryl; goddaughter Hazel; and countless friends across Canada and around the world.

He was an insatiable and enthusiastic concert goer, and he and Heather travelled the world together, planning trips to visit specific concert venues or to hear particular artists in signature performances.  Both lovers of opera – they always enjoyed musical masterpieces together, whose love stories many would say rival that of Glen and Heather’s own. Glen might have irreverently pointed out here, that there was as much angst as love in an opera libretto, so perhaps an unfair comparison has been made, and then remind you to have him tell you a story about it some other time. There are few that know Glen and Heather that haven’t marvelled at witnessing their singular partnership and deep and enduring devotion to one another.

Glen unabashedly loved a wide range of music, and when asked about his favourite concerts over the years, he would mention Neil Young and Vladimir Horowitz in the same breath. It was this egalitarian philosophy that made him particularly proud of Wilfrid Laurier’s new MA and B.Mus degrees in Community Music, which were introduced under his leadership. In 1977, Glen graduated with a Bachelor of Music from Brandon University where he studied with his life-long mentor Lorne Watson. His MMus degree from Carlton University resulted in the first comprehensive study of the works and life of the Canadian composer S.C. Eckhardt-Gramatté, which remains a standard reference work to this day.

In 1983, Glen attended the University of Victoria, graduating with a PhD in Musicology in 1986, and it was also there that he met his soulmate, Heather. They married in 1984 and moved to Thunder Bay in 1988, where Glen became the Founding Chair, Department of Music, at Lakehead University. During the ensuing decade, Glen realized he had an intuitive flair for administration (many would say he was genius at it), and his career trajectory changed accordingly. He next served as Dean, School of Music, at his alma mater in Brandon, Manitoba for 12 years.

In 2010, Glen and Heather moved to Kitchener, and Glen took on the position of Dean, Faculty of Music, at Wilfrid Laurier University. He remained in this position until earlier this year. During all this time, Glen was a tireless advocate for students and their musical education. He was a provocateur in his attempts to break down barriers in University music education, weighed decisions with gravitas and compassion, and always in the best interest of ‘his people’, the students. This drove his relentless pursuit of exceptional facilities for the students at Laurier. In recognition of Glen and his lasting impact on the university community, the Carruthers Practice Studios, a bank of high-quality, light-filled practice rooms will be named to honour him. Glen was also a very active in a number of national and international music organizations, and was especially proud to be appointed an honorary member of the Canadian University Music Society in 2016, and received the Arts Leadership Award of the Canadian Association of Fine Arts Deans in 2018.

A gifted conversationalist, Glen would jokingly start many a story with “I was born and raised in Winnipeg”, when in fact, he was fiercely proud of his prairie roots and of being Canadian. Wherever he landed, he soon became a familiar sight, walking to work in every city he lived in. He kept the tradition in his adopted hometown of Kitchener, his lanky form and instantly recognizable ponytail easily and often spotted during his twice-daily, 45-minute walk between Glasgow Street and the University. Glen was well known on campus for insisting that meetings not take place over the noon break so he could share lunch, every day, at home with Heather.

In their not-long-enough life together, the two shared an infectious glee in each other’s company, embracing the beauty of sights, sounds, tastes, conversations, laughter, friendships and (always) trains, with each other. Their connection was an exuberance of love, with more than enough go around, and their delight as a couple spilled over to all in their company, be it friends, colleagues or students. There is no word but heartbreak for Heather’s great loss.

Above everything, Glen valued the students he worked with over the years. He found young people interesting, inspiring, and exciting, and was never so happy as when he could chat with them about what they were up to, how things were going, or what they thought of a concert. Glen’s promenades around the music building meant the world to them – touch points that in turn inspired the students to strive to reach their own potential, through a kind word or thoughtful exchange with him.  He always made time for anyone that sought him out – and he made everyone feel special in those moments – his genuine dedicated dean superpower.

There will be a celebration of Glen’s life when we are able to gather and make music together again. In the meantime, in place of flowers, Heather suggests those interested make a donation to the “Making Space for Music” campaign at Laurier, a project dear to Glen’s heart, or to an arts organization of their choice. Messages and condolences may be left at www.tricitycremations.com. Please visit Glen's obituary notice on Facebook.
11 Comments
Margaret Walker
12/29/2020 01:37:47 pm

I have been privileged and honoured by my collegial association with Glen, primarily through the Standing Committee of Institutional Members in MusCan. I have many warm memories, including running into Glen and Heather at the Royal Opera, Covent Garden during the Guildhall's Reflective Conservatoire. Opera and curricular discussion - all Glen!

Reply
Phil Mullen
12/30/2020 02:20:39 pm

It was with deep sadness that I heard of Glen's passing. I have met him in many parts of the world and had the honour to be his guest in Waterloo. He was a thoroughly positive and lovely man, highly intelligent and committed to fairness for all music students. I always enjoyed his company and myself and the global community music community will miss him very much. My sincere condolences to Heather.

Reply
Carol Stalker
1/2/2021 12:59:50 pm

Heather, please accept my deepest sympathy for your tragic loss. Glen will be missed by so many. He was a wonderful colleague and made an outstanding contribution to Laurier University.
I have fond memories of dinner with you and Glen along with Nick and Laurie, and the brief visits on the Ironhorse Trail when our paths crossed.
I hope you will be comforted by knowing that so many are thinking of you and feeling great sadness.

Reply
Maria Cantalini-Williams
1/2/2021 01:56:50 pm

I had the privilege to know Glen as a decanal colleague at Wilfrid Laurier University for only 9 months. In that short time, it was evident that Glen was passionate about Music, he had a wonderful relationship with Heather and he was deeply devoted to the Laurier community. Glen has left a legacy of love and he will be deeply missed. Glen has inspired us by making significant impacts on the lives of many students, staff, faculty and community partners. Sincere condolences to Heather and family,
Maria Cantalini-Williams

Reply
Andrew Cherry
1/2/2021 07:44:47 pm

I am privillaged to have bern one of Glen's students at Lakehead. Not only did we share a love of music, but a live of trains too. He always made 8:30 am music history classes fun! He was also always supportive of us, and very encouraging. We were sad when he left to go to Brandon, but were equally supportive of him and his new career. Rest in peace. You will live on in all of us who you meant so much too.

Reply
Krystyna Carrier
1/4/2021 09:22:29 pm

For Heather
Upon learning of Glen’s passing, we felt compelled to share some thoughts, that you may find some comfort in knowing of all the fond memories we have of Glen, of his gentle personality and the many conversation’s he’s inspired, his ease of manner and his relatability on any topic, though his connections were of course primarily through music. He had far reaching impact and left a lasting impression on all of us.
It was in junior high/high school when he met my brothers John and Roman. Despite the fact that John was a year younger and Roman two years older than Glen their mutual interest in music transcended the age difference. Glen and John connected through their involvement in the RCM exams, exchanging notes and banter on how best to approach each of their selected pieces. Roman and Glen found their mutual interest in classical performances (Roman recalls that they seemed to be the only two with this interest around their age at the time) and attended many concerts at the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra together, even beyond high school. Roman always admired Glen’s passion for music.
Though educational pursuits took them in different directions they were always happy to engage in conversation whenever their paths crossed, such as the unlikely chance encounter between Glen and John on the streets of New York in the early 1980’s! John adds, “Even though we hadn’t spoken in many years, I thought of him often, and always fondly. And though he was a year ahead of me back in school, I was fortunate to be counted among his friends. I always found him open and approachable, funny and insightful, kind and completely non-judgmental. I remember many interesting discussions about music and movies and about life in general. I was lucky to know him.”
As for myself, I’m the considerably younger sibling that spent much effort trying to infiltrate their conversations back then. Glen was not only tolerant of my presence but would briefly engage my 5-to-12-year-old self in conversation. He had an intuitive ability to recognize which simple tactic to best employ, allowing the individual to walk away feeling valued and always welcomed.
In 1983 I was visiting family and friends on the West Coast. I was delighted that Glen made the time for my unannounced, limited visit and invited me to attend a chamber music performance with him. It was a very pleasant occasion allowing for conversation and family updates. Around 2008 I had another opportunity to meet with Glen while I was attending a Provincials’ Music Festival for which my son was a participant. Glen always made time for connecting with people whenever he could. In 2010 I was disappointed to learn that Glen was leaving Brandon University before my son would be attending, and he would never have the opportunity to benefit from knowing Glen and experience firsthand his inexhaustible desire to share his knowledge and to nurture the next generation through his easy-going, casual approach.
It was through my son’s connection to B.U. that we learned of Glen’s passing. We were all struck by the news and the great loss to the musical community, his long-ago connections, co-workers, friends, family, and especially for you Heather. He will be genuinely missed.
Our sincerest sympathy,

Roman Kozak, John Kozak, Tina (Krystyna) Carrier (nee Kozak) and Family

Reply
Sally Robinson
1/7/2021 04:56:22 pm

Heather, I can't imagine the pain you must be going through. But, having met you, I know you'll find some strength and solace from all the love that is being sent your way.

As you know, I knew him in his early 20s. At Brandon, he lived in Apartment Q. He and his room-mate had an open-house once a week. They posted a sign saying "Philistines beware". Always an open door and a great sense of humour.

I'm so thankful we didn't lose touch over the years. It was so great to see the two of you in your home in Thunder Bay and in Brandon. When I saw him at Brandon's 100th anniversary of the Music School, I couldn't believe how healthy, strong and capable he looked! We both laughed. He could now drive a car, work a computer AND run a music department! I knew him in his early, starving artist days.

It was you, Heather, who made the difference. I am SO glad the two of you found each other. You gave him the support and love he needed to find his true calling and to live the life he was meant to live.

May you find peace.

Reply
Felicia Urbanski
1/8/2021 09:05:45 pm

First, I send my love and condolences to Heather, remembering well that bright afternoon in Thunder Bay at the Kangas restaurant when I first met you in 1988! You and Glen were alwys a couple to be admired, with a love to be cherished. Like others who have shared their experiences of Glen, I too remember his constant kindness and understanding, always taking time to talk and to listen. What a gifted person he was! I also remember when, when I stopped by Lakehead University to say hello one day, I noticed how badly injured his face was....and he told me the horrific story of how, when simply going out with a male friend one evening, they were mistaken for a gay couple and badly beaten. I was shocked (and still am) to know that there are individuals in this world who are violent towards GLBTQ+ people, and who are so homophobic that any same gender friendship would be disparaged. To me, Glen was amazingly forgiving, yet not one to be fearful. He continued with his ever-loving and open attitude towards all humanity. My admiration for him goes well beyond his stellar accomplishments in the field of music and musicology, as awesome as those are. We have lost an incredible human being whose light will illumine the paths of the many whose lives he has touched. I wish now that I would have found time to stop by Wilfrid Laurier to say hello to Glen! I'm sorry that my own responsibilities took up too much of my time after I met you both living in the same neighbourhood as we did in K-W. I truly cherished Glen's presence in this community, as he shared his gifts with students and faculty. I wish for you peace and many blessings during this very difficult time. Warmly, Felicia

Reply
Robert (Bob) Blair
1/16/2021 08:20:22 pm

My deepest condolences, Heather, on Glen's passing. I only learned of it tonight (Jan. 16) when reading the B.U. Newsletter. I can recall so many happy times with the both of you when we were all "Egre" together. I know that Glen will be sorely missed by the music community. My prayers and love to you, Heather.
Bob

Reply
Lorene De Silva
1/18/2021 06:58:57 pm

Glen and I had lockers close by. We both were going to school at BU.
We met multi times by the lockers. He impressed on me as a deep, kind, and hard working person. His accomplishments made his friends proud. Deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.

Reply
Rick Dondo link
2/3/2021 08:25:43 am

Gone much too soon...

Glen was part of a record-sized graduating cohort of Miles Macdonell Collegiate in his hometown, Winnipeg. Even then, his love of music and his ability to perform it set him apart from the heavily talented crowd.

We lost touch after High School, but I never forgot the impromptu concerts that often included Grieg's Piano Concert in A Minor played on a school piano in one or the other of our auditoriums / lecture halls... no sheet music... complete...

Even under those conditions and at that early age... unforgettable.

I will remember him, as are many of his fellow alumni of that still outstanding High School.

Reply

Your comment will be posted after it is approved.


Leave a Reply.

    Welcome. If you would like to leave a message of condolence, click on the comments line in the obituary, then scroll down to the section for leaving a reply​

    Past Obituaries

    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016

Testimonials

"I just wanted to say how pleased we were with the help you guys provided to us. I was very nervous about the whole situation however you made us feel very comfortable and at ease. Very professional yet personal, no pressure just quality service. We are recommending you guys every chance we get”  ​Mary
“Hi Shawn, just taking a moment finally to express my gratitude on the wonderful services you have provided thus far. Your staff (Lisa) has been wonderful with everything. A true professional and very empathetic and compassionate to our loss. She did an amazing job in preparing mom for our intimate viewing. Mom looked exactly how she would've if still with us. I was so pleased to see how perfect everything was.”  Carlo
“Thank you so much I not sure if you are told enough but you truly are amazing for what you do the help you give the relief you give people after losing a loved one I want to thank you.”  
“Shawn, please accept our thanks for making the cremation process simple and dignified. You could not have been any more helpful and I am very grateful for your ‘virtual’ presence.” 
“Once again, thank you so much for your kind service on behalf of myself and her family, we thank you for making a difficult time seamless” 

    Contact Us

Submit
Immediate Need
If you have an immediate need for a loved one, please call us now. ​
​We have a licensed staff member on call 24 hours a day to assist you at this difficult time.
​
​​Kitchener Office: 
1601 River Road East, Unit 28A,  Kitchener, ON   N2A 3Y4
519-772-1237  kitchener@tricitycremations.com
Licence #1051
Cambridge Office:
383 Elgin Street North, Unit 10,  Cambridge, ON   N1R 8C1
​
519-267-7199  cambridge@tricitycremations.com
​
Licence #1280

Canadian Federation of
 Independent Business
Picture
Consumer Protection Ontario
Picture
Funeral Service
Association of Canada
Picture
Ontario Funeral
Service Association
Picture
​​Licensed by
​Bereavement Authority of Ontario
Picture
Consumer Information Guide
​© 2022 Tri-City Cremation Services.  All rights reserved.
  • Home
  • About
  • Cremation
  • Burial
  • Preplanning
  • Grief Resources
  • Obituaries & Condolences
  • Contact