Glenn Elvin Warn

Glenn Elvin Warn, born November 16, 1951, in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, passed away peacefully and in his own way, surrounded by family, at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit on April 13, 2025.

The second child of Henry and Kay Warn, Glenn was raised with a deep appreciation for creativity, hard work, and a thirst for adventure. Before settling in Nanaimo, BC, he lived in Kelowna and later moved with his family to Fort St. John, where they built their own log home. At just 14, Glenn hitchhiked across Canada—often telling his children, “That’s just what we did in those days.” In 1965, he moved to Nanaimo to rejoin his parents in their new hometown.

Glenn is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Kay Warn; sisters-in-law, Linda Warn and Darlene Allercott; brother-in-law, Russ Roux; and nephew, Shayne Warn.

He shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Margaret Roux. Together, they built a loving family, raising three children: April (Phillip) Vannini, Brendan (Nicole) Warn, and Matthew Warn. Glenn was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to 11 grandchildren, all of whom adored him. He created lasting memories with them through his famous Easter egg hunts, magic messages inside walnuts, mountain hikes, flower planting, guitar serenades, and family sing-alongs.

His grandchildren include Jacob Manson (Sheila), Marley Warn (Styler), Autumn Vannini, Kaiden Warn, Jordessa MacDougall, Sadie Warn, Logan Smith, Kyson Manson, Jahseh Warn, Grayson Warn, and Travis Warn.

Survived by his sister Joy. He will be dearly missed by his older brother Wayne, as well as extended family members Elizabeth Timmons (Ray), Julie Boros, and his brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.

A skilled house painter by trade, Glenn graduated from BCIT and became a ticketed painter in 1976. He worked with Clark and Patterson doing interior painting before dedicating 34 years to the Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District No 68 where he worked as a painter and sign painter, foreman, and CUPE Local 606 executive member. As the District’s sign painter, Glenn left a vibrant legacy through the school mascots and murals he created in gymnasiums across the district which brought spirit and pride to every school he touched.

Affectionately known as “Fish” by old friends, Glenn was famous for his quick wit, playful humor, and pranks around the paint shop. He brought lightness and laughter wherever he went.

A true Renaissance man, Glenn had a gift for building and creating anything. He was a talented visual artist whose portraits and drawings were breathtaking. His love for music—especially classical guitar—filled the home with melody. Though never formally trained, he had a remarkable ear and could play nearly any stringed instrument. Glenn’s talents extended to his garden as well where he cultivated a lush yard filled with exotic plants, rare bamboo, and even banana trees.

A passionate collector, he found joy in gathering stamps, coins, and quirky treasures—including rocks from around the world. He had a knack for discovering beauty in unexpected places and delighted in small, meaningful details. More than anything, Glenn will be remembered for his

wisdom, humor, and his ability to turn any conversation into something thoughtful and kind. In his final days, he shared cherished stories of childhood, sailing adventures on the two boats he restored, and memories of family camping trips and outings. His family will remember him as probably one of the most interesting people there ever was.

During his final weeks, Glenn expressed deep gratitude for the compassionate care he received from the doctors, nurses, hospice volunteers, and hospital staff. He felt truly seen and cared for. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated team at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital for their excellent care, with special thanks to Dr. Romaine, who’s compassionate care brought great comfort to him.

Glenn was not one for formality and preferred that friends and family celebrate a life well lived. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 8, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Beban Park Social Centre, Lounge C in Nanaimo, B.C. Refreshments, and snacks will be provided, and guests are invited to share their favorite memories of Glenn.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Palliative Care Unit or the Cancer Clinic at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.