Latham- George R. Glaros, 76, passed away Saturday, January 27, 2018, peacefully at home on a sunny afternoon, surrounded by his family and the warm memories of a life well lived. The son of the late James T. and Lillian (Gustafson) Glaros of Minneapolis, MN, George is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Roberta (Nicky) Glaros.
A graduate of the University of Minnesota, George joined the Peace Corps in 1965 and served in the African country of Cameroon for two years. On returning home, he earned a PhD in chemistry at the University of Nebraska and joined the faculty of Russell Sage College where he taught for nearly four decades, touching the lives of countless students.
George's love of the outdoors led him to years of camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, nature photography, and fishing. He was a proud member of New Hampshire's 4,000 Footer Club, having climbed the 46 high peaks in the White Mountains. His passion for music evolved into regular attendance at the Glimmerglass Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, Tanglewood, the Troy Chromatic Concerts, the Musicians of Ma'alwyck, and the NYC Ballet, among others. Encouraged by his adventurous spirit, George and Nicky traveled together across the country and around the world.
George valued family above all else. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two sons, Steven (Dannielle) and Michael (Amber); five grandchildren Corbett, Lillian, Reid, Evan, and Finnian; his brother Timothy and sister Katherine; and cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his older brother Theodore and younger sister Connie.
George was an extraordinary husband and father, but found his greatest role later in life as the beloved "Papa" to his five grandchildren. He spent countless hours doting on them-- celebrating their achievements large and small. Whether he was teaching them to fish, conducting basement science experiments, or sharing his latest travel adventure, they always felt enveloped in his love. He passed on his wisdom and passion for life to the next generations in everything from science to soccer to the outdoors to James Bond films.
Memorial contributions can be made to Doctors Without Borders (https://events.doctorswithoutborders.org/campaign/George-R-Glaros-Memorial-Fund) or the Appalachian Mountain Club's Trail Fund (www.outdoors.org/get-involved/donate/spring-trails-fund).
A memorial celebration will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Road, Watervliet, NY 12189, on February 17, 2018 at 11:00AM.