David "Joe" Gless

David “Joe” Gless was a man of many hats—Boy Scout, volunteer, firefighter, Army Reservist, pilot, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and faithful servant of God. He lived a life filled with purpose, kindness, and devotion to family, country, and community.

Born January 12, 1944, Joe was the second son of Howard and Dorothy Gless of Plainwell, Michigan. He grew up alongside his brother Tony, and from the age of 6 learned the value of hard work and service while helping his family at Gless Standard Gas Station. Those early lessons in responsibility and saving would shape his remarkable life ahead.

From a young age, Joe was captivated by aviation. At just 16, he began flying lessons at the Plainwell Airport—paid for with money he saved himself. Over the years, he owned several aircraft, including a Jupiter Experimental and a Piper Cub, and later served as President of the Plainwell Pilots Association. A proud graduate of Western Michigan University, Joe went on to earn his commercial pilot’s license and began flying professionally for corporations in the Kalamazoo and Battle Creek areas.

His love story with Linda Medler was truly heaven-sent. They shared a deep faith in God, a passion for aviation, and a calling to serve others. Joe proposed to Linda mid-flight over Lake Michigan, with the Chicago skyline shimmering in the distance — a perfect symbol of their shared love of flying and adventure.

Joe spent 37 dedicated years as a pilot for Upjohn, Pharmacia, and Pfizer, serving as Chief Pilot and even completing a trip around the world. During that time, he had the privilege of flying for a wonderful businessman and his wife for 17 years—an experience that blossomed into a cherished friendship.

Throughout his career, Joe piloted more than 80 different aircraft and logged 40 hours in a Bell helicopter. Flying a P-51 Mustang trainer was a dream come true; ever generous, he shared the experience with Linda—Joe at the controls, and Linda by his side, just as she always had been. He eventually “checked out” at age 70 in a Citation X, marking the close of a remarkable aviation career. In recognition of his lifetime of safe and skillful flying, Joe received the prestigious FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award—celebrating 50 years of flight without a single infraction.

Alongside his aviation accomplishments, Joe served his community as a Plainwell firefighter for eight years and as a Deacon at Lakeland Reformed Church where his generosity of time and spirit touched countless lives. His faith guided his every step, and he embodied generosity, humility, and service to others.

Fifty years ago, Joe and Linda built their home on Indian Lake— a labor of love that Joe poured his heart into. He did much of the work himself, with the help of his brother Tony and friends skilled in the trades even installing the underground sprinkler system with his best friend Duane and Duane’s son, Kent. Together they raised their children, Shannon and Jeff, surrounded by faith, laughter, and the beauty of nature. Joe loved teaching and sharing his knowledge, creating “Pop’s Schools” covering everything from lawn mowing and swimming to water skiing, diving, and sailing. His patience, humor, and steady guidance made every lesson a treasured memory.

Over the decades, Joe and Linda were blessed with wonderful neighbors who became lifelong friends—sharing laughter, celebrations, and unwavering support through both joyful and difficult seasons of life. Their neighborhood truly became an extended family, a testament to the warmth and kindness Joe and Linda brought into every relationship.

He was known for his integrity, intelligence, and kindness—a man who always put others before himself. Whether fixing something for a neighbor, mentoring young pilots, or offering a word of encouragement, Joe lived his faith in quiet, meaningful ways. His life leaves a legacy of service, generosity, and love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; his children Shannon (Eric) Myers and Jeff (Julie) Gless; his brother Tony (Pat) Gless; grandchildren Brad (Katherine) Moldovan, Brittney (Tanner) Brewer, Cameron and Avery Myers, TJ Dymond, Cole Joseph Gless, Andrew Gless, Christian Roth, and Meghan Roth; and great-grandchildren Donovan Joseph Moldovan and Adeline “Addi” Brewer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Dorothy Gless.

Joe’s family is deeply grateful to Gentiva Hospice and Absolute Home Care for their compassionate care and to the many friends and neighbors who offered prayers and support throughout his journey home to Heaven.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 18th at 11am at the Lakeland Reformed Church. The family will greet friends at the church beginning at 10am.

Because Linda has a severe allergy to flowers, the family kindly asks that no floral arrangements be sent. Instead, those wishing to honor Joe’s memory are invited to make a contribution to one of the causes dear to his heart: Generous Hands, Kindness Acts (KA) -a charity founded by their daughter, Shannon Myers, or to the Plainwell Airport to help young pilots build their flying hours.

Joe’s spirit touched every heart along his journey, and we take comfort in knowing that he is welcomed at Heaven’s door, embraced joyfully by God with “Well done, my son. Well done.” His legacy of faith, family, and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Joe’s guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with his family.

The Gless family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.