Glenn W. Durflinger, Jr.
Glenn W. Durflinger passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family at the age of 79. Born in Kearney, Nebraska, at age 3 he moved to Santa Barbara, California with his family, father Glenn Sr., mother Verna and sisters Wanda and Betty. Glenn graduated from Santa Barbara High School in 1956 and soon after graduation enlisted in the U.S. Marines from 1956-1959. Following basic training in San Diego he became a seagoing Marine serving aboard the aircraft carriers USS Princeton and USS Yorktown. Glenn married his high school sweetheart Michelina (Mickey) in 1958 and they moved to Oceanside, California for Glenn to finish his Marine Corps service at Camp Pendleton as a Sergeant.
Glenn graduated from Los Angeles Trade Tech studying architecture and attended USC and UCLA, while working at night to support his family. They moved to Glendale, California in 1964 where they raised their three children Glenn III, David and Susan.
Glenn leaves behind a legacy of work from his 38 years with W.E.D. Enterprises (now Walt Disney Imagineering). Ever the consummate Imagineer, designing and implementing some of the Disney theme parks’ most cherished features and attractions.
Early in his career, Glenn worked on New Orleans Square at Disneyland, and was project designer on the Space Mountain and Big Thunder attractions. At Walt Disney World he was responsible for construction documents for Cinderella Castle and much of Fantasyland. From 1972 through 1982 he managed all the architectural production, show set production, interior and graphic design for EPCOT, and was also the Project Designer for Disney-MGM Studios. As Chief Architect at WDI Anaheim he managed a team of architects, engineers and consultants working on many projects at Disneyland including Mickey’s Toontown.
Glenn was also instrumental in the initiation of the Show Quality Standards (SQS) department at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Theme Parks. SQS maintains the original art direction, quality and integrity of all Disney attractions.
Glenn is remembered for his creativity, work ethic, generosity and modesty. How he approached his work and the people he worked with is as much a part of his Disney legacy as are the many projects he helped to develop and maintain.
Glenn’s life was magical in so many other ways too! He enjoyed a life of wonderful travels with his wife, many life-long friends, fishing, tournament bridge, golf and coaching youth sports. With a great sense of humor and sharp wit, he was dedicated to all aspects of his life, which impressed everyone who knew him.
Glenn is survived by his wife of 60 years, Michelina, children, Glenn (Karin), David (Trish) and Susan (Charles) as well as seven grandchildren, Erin, Megan, Kaitlyn, Lauren, Danielle, Kyle, and Paige and his sister Elizabeth “Betty” Pia (David).
In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity in Glenn’s name.