Obituaries detail

Dr. Glenn Martin Amundson

September 21, 1953 - January 1, 2021

 

 

Dr. Glenn Martin Amundson, MD, orthopedic spine surgeon at Prime Orthopedics and Spine, passed away at home on 1 January, 2021, surrounded by his wife, son and pets, following a sudden illness. Glenn was born 21 September, 1953 and raised in Sioux Falls, SD, the son of Roy and Marilyn Amundson. He completed his bachelor’s of science at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, where he was a gifted competitive distance swimmer. He then attended medical school at the University of Iowa, completing his M.D. in 1979. His internship and residency were spent at the San Diego Naval Hospital. Dr. Amundson held prominent positions in various capacities for the Navy before retiring with the rank of Captain 06. He was also a field medical officer for the U.S. Marine Corps. He held several academic appointments, including locally at the Veterans Administration Hospital and the University of Kansas Medical Center. Dr. Amundson published dozens of medical journal articles, abstracts, and research, made hundreds of academic presentations and contributed chapters to many textbooks in his distinguished career.



His colleagues and coworkers remember him as brilliant, focused, soft-spoken and easy to talk to; a total gentleman. Patients remarked on his expertise, professionalism and sincere, straight-forward bedside manner. He was the very definition of “the strong and silent” type.



Glenn was proud of his Norwegian heritage, and was drawn to Viking history and mythology. He had so many talents and interests. He collected guitars and was learning to play, was testing for his brown belt in Tae Kwon Do, and could fix or build anything. Most of all, he loved the water; Glenn and his wife Heidi were planning to retire to a quiet spot in Belize where he could snorkel in peace for hours. 

 

Glenn was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Lloyd Amundson. Missing him terribly are his adored wife Heidi Amundson, his beloved son Erik Amundson, and his sister, Liz George, his step-children, Alex Werner and Claudia Griggs, and many heartbroken friends and colleagues. Godspeed, good doctor, and thank you for your humble service.



“Cattle die, kinsmen die,

The self must also die.

But honor never dies,

For the man who is able to achieve it.”

 

 

Additional Service:
No Services Planned

Condolences

Julie Hamrick Jan 08, 2021

Friend ,San Jose ,California

My condolences to his wife and family. Glenn was an amazing man and Surgeon. My heart is with you.

Terry Bertone Jan 08, 2021

Past office worker ,Sun City Center ,Florida

It broke my heart when I heard that Dr A had passed away😢. I worked in the office when he was with Reed and Bailey. Of course, he was my favorite!! Yes, I could always talk to him about anything and he would have a that slow soft smile. The world lost a good man when Gid decided to take him home. I remember how much he loved his son. Nothing put a bigger smile on his face than talking about him. I will be remembering his family as friends in my prayers😢🙏. Thank you God for letting us have Dr A for awhile❤️

Bradley Axon Jan 08, 2021

Friend of Heidi ,Scottsdale ,Arizona

Prayers and Love to all.

Robyn Beghtol Jan 08, 2021

family ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I always thought I'd have more time to really get to know Glenn, he seemed like a deep pool to dive into. I saw how he loved his family and his doggies, and knew he must have been an amazing healer. Another light waiting on the other side for us some day, Heid. Love you.

Dr Kathy Smith Jan 08, 2021

Colleague ,Pittsford ,Vermont

Heidi & Family There are no words 💔💔 A great man, father, husband, surgeon & friend!! A true gentle giant in all aspects of life ! I was worked with Dr A at HH&S! Best years of my career! Sending healing hugs & 🙏🙏🙏 Dr Kathy

George Pearson Jan 08, 2021

Friend ,Lawrence ,Kansas

I knew Dr. Amundson in a professional capacity and I think I may have been the first lawyer to use him to give expert witness testimony in a legal case probably 30 years ago. I used him as an expert witness many times over the years in his specialty field of orthopedics. I found him to be refreshingly honest and decent and I am very sorry to hear of his passing. RIP Dr. Amundson

Pam Mitchell Jan 08, 2021

Past co-worker ,Roeland Park ,Kansas

I will always have fond memories of working with Dr. Amundson and Heidi. My heart goes out to the entire family. RIP Dr. 😞🙏

Jan Marshall Branson Jan 09, 2021

Surgery Nurse -Coworker and Friend ,Lenexa ,Kansas

I met Dr A at Shawnee Mission Medical Center when I scrubbed spine cases with him. He was a talented and gifted surgeon. A patient teacher, and always willing to help anyone. I work side by side with him for many years. I always respected and admired his skill and quiet strength. I enjoyed his soft spoken nature and sense of humor! I’ll miss you doc.! “Fair Winds and followings seas”

Dr Jesse Lopez Jan 09, 2021

Friend/Colleague ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Sending my sincere heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all of Glenn's family. I have the pleasure of working with him when we shared offices at the old Heartland Spine and Specialty Hospital and were also on staff together at Menorah Medical Center. Not only a talented surgeon, but kind to all he encountered. His loss will be greatly felt in the medical community.

Bob cole Jan 10, 2021

Co worker ,Liberty ,Missouri

I work with Dr Amundson for 8 years you would not find a more brilliant and kind man. He was a very compassionate physician and a very generous and giving individual. Our medical community and our society as we know it today took a tremendous hit with the passing of Dr Amundson. Rest in peace Glenn you will be missed but never forgotten

Vincent Kirk Jan 10, 2021

Friend and student. Most importantly, a good friend. I will truly miss my friend Glenn. He was a great man and friend. My most sincere condolences to Heidi and the rest of his family and friends. This just breaks my heart. Love you Glenn, I will see you in heaven someday. Lots of love, Vince Kirk. ,Olathe ,Kansas

Love the Lord God and Jesus Christ and ask for forgiveness. As he was GOD manifested and sacrificed his self for all of us. I love Glenn and will miss his friendship so much that I cannot even put in words. Love you Glenn. Vince

Bruce Andrews Jan 11, 2021

Patient Friend ,Clay center ,Kansas

Dr. A, helped so many people, he will be missed, condolences to his family.

Gary Pixler Jan 11, 2021

Long Time Patient ,Platte City ,Missouri

Heidi and Erik, It is with profound sadness that I have learned of Glenn's sudden passing. Glenn was a U.S. Navy shipmate. I trusted only Glenn with my spinal issues as well as that of my mothers as well. I am forever grateful for him helping me and my mom. I am besides myself and my heart goes out to you and the family. He was and will always be forever the greatest of any Doctor and friend to me. God bless you and Erik. Sincerely Gary L. Pixler United States Navy Retired.

Marsha Plese Jan 11, 2021

Patient ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Dr Amundson and I’m sending many prayers your way. Before I first met with Dr Amundson I had seen six other orthopedic/neuro surgeons for my spinal condition. Dr Amundson was willing to “fix” my spine as well as patiently explain and educate me regarding my choices. I will be forever grateful to him for his expertise and his kindness.

John king Jan 11, 2021

Very Very happy patient ,Topeka ,Kansas

Im sending my condolences to the family and Friends of a great surgeon and a great man . I knew within a few minutes of meeting with the good doctor that he was a great doctor and after talking to him about my physical problems he asked about my life and how my physical problems were effecting it. And we immediately had connection he knew of the sand dunes I wanted to visit again outside San Diego and he explained to me he was a naval surgeon and seen a lot of broken backs from them sand dunes. We talked about an interest we both had in martial arts. I felt like I was talking to an old friend and at that moment I had total 100% confidence that god had took me to him to heal my injured back. I'm so so sad of his passing but I'm so honored to have met him and that he had done my surgery. May God bless all of his family & Friendsin Jesus name I pray Amen

BRENDA HARRINGTON Jan 12, 2021

Friend ,Roeland Park

Glenn was both a strong man in stature and heart. He was always pleasant and thankful. A quiet giant is how I remember him. Rest In Peace.

michell Jan 13, 2021

client ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Hello, Words can't express to what a great Dr.Glenn was to me . He truly helped me through the process and his kindness and patient with me was like no other. I know I will never find a Dr. like him ever again. Sending love and light to everyone. May you be at peace. Love, Michell

Juanita Peckham Jan 13, 2021

Patient ,Rantoul ,Kansas

I received a letter today telling of the passing of Dr. Amundson. I was shocked and greatly saddened by this news. He has been my doctor since 2003 and I considered him a friend as well as a respected doctor. He will be missed by all. My prayers go out to his wife and Sons at this time. RIP Dr. Amundson!

Greg and Cindi Rollins Jan 13, 2021

former patient ,Raytown ,Missouri

Dr. Amundson was a surgeon for both of us. He performed 8 surgeries on my husband over the last 15 years. He was an awesome man and a wonderful doctor. We put all of our trust in him. He will truly be missed. Our condolences to his family.

David Brown Jan 13, 2021

Patient ,Chillicothe ,Missouri

I am shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Amundson. After an accident left me with a spine injury I asked some medical associates for three references of a Spine Surgeon. Dr. Amundson was at the top of the list. I have a great respect for Dr. Amundson. God speed Doc.

darci magneson Jan 13, 2021

Co-worker, then patient ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I just found out of Dr Amundson's passing today. I worked with him when he first came to KU Hospital from the Navy. I took care of his spinal fusions. Then I got hurt in 1997 and he had done 8 fusions on me over these past 27 years. He was an excellent Dr and a funny guy. I really felt important to him as a patient. He had a way of making everyone feel that way. He will be terribly missed and never able to be replaced. My prayers to all family and everyone who knew him. I'm so very sorry!! But proud to have known him. Darci Magneson RN, retired

Tracy Lynn Shoate Jan 14, 2021

New Patient ,Sugar Creek ,Missouri

I was shocked by the news of Dr. Amundsons passing. I only saw him a couple of times but, I felt so comfortable with his kind soul and I felt as though I had known him for years. Mrs. Amundson you and your family are in my prayers. The world has lost a great surgeon and beautiful kind soul and heaven gained a wonderful man. Rest easy Dr. A. until we meet again.

Rev. Larry Thomas Jan 18, 2021

Patient ,Shawnee ,Kansas

My wife,Darlene and Larry Thomas were shocked to learn of Dr. Amundson's passing today. Dr. Amundson was the best orthopedic surgeon I have ever had. His bedside manner was always friendly & expertise great. We had the privilege of praying with him on our last visit. He will be missed!

Angela and Douglas Groth Jan 19, 2021

Patient ,Leavenworth ,Kansas

Our hearts are with the family of this great man and exquisitely talented surgeon. What a great loss for the community and medical society. We will miss him.

Jim Fischer Jan 19, 2021

Patient ,Axtell

Dr Amundson did both my major back surgeries. The last was 10/4/19 at Boonville. The bleeding was slow stopping and he patiently stayed rather than starting the drive to KC, even though in all his surgeries he never had to reopen. When he left he gave us his cell phone number and he did stay in touch with us during the night. He had incredible competence coupled with total commitment to his patients. He was approachable and could explain things so well as just one human to another. He is irreplaceable and it is with tears in my eyes that I write this note. My sincerest condolences to his family because your loss is huge. May God bless and richly reward you Dr Amundson.

Robert Hadwick Jan 20, 2021

Patient ,Bonner Springs ,Kansas

I am so sorry to hear od Dr Amundson's passing. He saved my life and I am forever grateful. May you find peace in God as you heal from your loss.

Cherolyn Wright Jan 20, 2021

Patient & friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I am so saddened to learn that Dr. A is just gone. He was an awesome doctor and helped me get through the worst surgeries of my life. He was such a gifted man. I pray for your strength in the days to come. ❤️ Cherolyn Wright

Marc Joseph Jan 21, 2021

Classmate ,Dallas ,Texas

I spent the summer of 1974 in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, with Glenn and others from the Naval Academy class of 1975. It was clear then that his passion was medicine, and I had no doubt he would follow that passion and provide great care to his patients. I am so sorry for your loss. He was an outstanding Midshipman, classmate, and friend. Glenn, fair winds and following seas. Marc Joseph

Brian Weaver Jan 21, 2021

USNA classmate ,Wolcott ,New York

Fair winds and following seas on your journey west. A life well lived. Thank you for your friendship!

Jeff Jan 21, 2021

Patient ,Shawnee ,Kansas

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Amundson who treated me for the past 15+ yrs. with scoliosis/fusions and infused lumbar. At the first visit he said wait and you will auto fuse. He was right, but two yrs ago I got a cyst in the lumbar and he went int to that mess of a low back and cleared it up. I got an infection....sepsis and all. He ordered an mri immediately and reviewed at home that night after surgery all day. The next day he did emergency surgery after all of his scheduled surgeries that day staying until 7pm in the OR (staff too). Dr Amundson saved my life and the world lost one great surgeon! My condolences to his family and the sacrifices you have made though the years.

CAPT Richard Arnold, USN, (ret) Jan 21, 2021

Naval Academy Roommate ,Coronado ,California

Glenn and I were roommates at the Naval Academy. He was my best man at my wedding in 1980. I remember spending time at his parents in Waterloo Iowa. He and I experienced a great deal together and had many many discussions about what our futures would hold. I always admired his focus on becoming a doctor. I can recall lots of nights he would stay up studying for a premed test long after I was asleep. I am positive his patients were very appreciative of his attention to detail and his dedication to his profession. He was one of a kind. I am better off for having had our paths cross. He will always have a special place in my heart. Please let me know if there is a charitable organization that he admired so that I may make a donation in his name

Carl Klee Jan 22, 2021

Classmate USNA ,Emerald Isle ,North Carolina

Very sorry to hear of Glenn's passing. He had an amazing career. We will miss him at future reunions. CAPT Carl R. Klee, USN (Retired)

BOB SHEPHERD Jan 22, 2021

Patient ,EMPORIA ,Kansas

My heart felt condolences to Heidi and all of Dr. Amundson’s family. Dr. Amundson performed a difficult surgery on my spine in March of 2018 that had been passed up by other surgeons. Dr. Amundson’s soft spoken and gentle caring demeanor ensured me that it could be done. The surgery was a total success with a rapid recovery. Glen will be missed but never forgotten by those whose lives he touched. God bless you all, I pray that you will receive the strength and courage to face the times ahead.

Carl June, MD (USN MC, retired) Jan 24, 2021

Classmate ,Merion ,Pennsylvania

Glenn was a classmate of mine at the Naval Academy and one of my best friends there as we were one of only 8 graduates to attend Medical School after graduation. I last saw Glenn 10 years ago when i was a visiting professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center. I remember Glenn as a gentle giant with a great sense of humor and compassion. He was a wonderful representative of the US Navy Medical Corps.

Norma Robinson Jan 25, 2021

Patient ,Lyndon ,Kansas

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. A! He operated on me 5 times and gave me back my life. Please accept our sincere condolences. He was one of a kind.

Judy Osborn Jan 26, 2021

Patient ,Kansas City ,Missouri

My prayers for the family and friends of Dr. Amundson. He and Dr. Reed performed my surgery June 16th, 2000. I was able to walk after the surgery. He had such a gentle spirit and a great bedside manner. My husband and I were heartbroken when I could no longer see him for pain management. My heart is now even more broken. May The LORD comfort this family! Thank you, Dr. Amundson!

Mary Smallwood Feb 02, 2021

Patient ,Burlingame ,Kansas

I'm so sorry to hear of Dr. Amundson's passing. When no one else believed me about the pain i was in, he did and was determined to help. He was a special angel in my life at a time when i needed it most, and he will be remembered forever. Thankyou so much for all you did for me, Dr. Amundson. Rest peacefully.

Cindy Bryant Feb 04, 2021

Heidi I'm so very sorry for your loss. Dr. Amundson was an amazing Doctor. Take care of yourself. And don't be too quick to get rid of the things you have. 6 months from now you will want them back. This is one of the hardest things you will have to go through. But God has a plan. My God Bless you and your family. Take care of yourself and remember he is still with you. He would want that.

Randy C Westfahl Feb 04, 2021

Former patient and friend ,OLATHE ,Kansas

I am so sorry to hear of Glenn's passing. I came to him, unable to cope any longer with 47 years of terrible pain. He looked me in the eyes and said, "I can fix your back, and you and I can end this pain". He operated on my spine twice, and he did exactly what he said he would do. Along the way, he became my friend. The last time I saw him he said, "we may not see each other again, I believe you are sound". We shook hands and he had a tear on his face. I thanked him for giving me back my life. I will never forget him. He was the definition of a healer, and he was my friend. Fair winds Doc.

Steve Munns Feb 10, 2021

Friend and colleague ,Overland Park ,Kansas

My condolences to Glenn’s family. Our friendship began as freshmen classmates in medical school at Iowa. We were close friends and workout partners through med school and stayed in touch during and after our orthopedic training, even vacationing together. I helped recruit him to KU Orthopedics and we remained lifelong friends after he left our group. We shared many great memories. I will miss him. Steve Munns

Connie Damico Feb 27, 2021

Patient of 10+ years ,Lee’s Summit ,Missouri

My condolences to his family friends and people who are lucky enough to have him as a doctor. He was the best in my opinion and was always professional, helpful, and always very kind. To find a doctor that Lessons. is almost impossible he managed to do both have a great bedside manner, listen, and offer you options and choices based on your own needs in for years and health. I will miss him dearly and I can’t imagine who can fill those shoes. To his wife and kids and his extended family my thoughts and prayers are with you always I just know that all of the world sees the goodness and his strong and silent man. May he rest in peace and may you guys find comfort and I love surrounding you And the memories he leaves behind. Know that you are all blessed I loved by him and he spoke of all of you often. Take care of yourselves and allow yourself to feel whatever it is it helps you to remember the good things in life. Namaste, sending love and light your way

Robert A. Camarata Mar 07, 2021

Head Swimming Coach Hoover Junior High School ,Grundy Center ,Iowa

I was Glenn Amundson's swimming coach at Hoover Junior High in Waterloo, IA in 1968. That was Hoover’s first year in existence, and Glenn was our stand out swimmer. In that first year Glenn could be put in any swimming event and easily take a 1st place against any team in our conference setting a record in the process. More importantly he was a standout kid that I have never forgotten, and a natural team leader. He led us to Hoovers first of many undefeated dual meet seasons and Conference Championships. I am saddened to hear of Glenn’s passing, and send my condolences and prayers to his family and friends. With great regret, Robert A. Camarata

Jeff Razafsky Mar 18, 2021

Patient ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I just learned of Dr. Amundson's passing. He helped greatly with my sciatica. My deepest condolences to his loved ones and friends.

Ellen Mar 23, 2021

former patient ,Kansas City ,Kansas

I was so so sorry to hear about Dr. Amundsen's passing. I saw him for chronic back pain, and he is the first provider that I felt truly listened and took me seriously. He had such amazing patient care and professionalism. I'm so sorry for your loss. I will always remember him fondly.

Lynn Taggs May 06, 2021

Former co-worker ,Lansing ,Kansas

I just found out about the passing of Dr. Glenn Amundson today. I am very saddened by this. I performed transcription for him at Heartland Hand & Spine for 8 years. I always knew him to be kind and soft spoken. He was easy to talk to. I remember before his son, Erik, was born, he had concerns whether he would be a good father. I told him as soon as he saw that baby he would instantly be in love and would do anything for him and always protect him. When he was born, he told me it was exactly as I said...Erik was his pride and joy and he loved to talk about him. Sending my condolences to his family and friends. Wishing you all peace in your hearts during this time of grief and healing. ltaggs1718@gmail.com

Lorily Haase May 10, 2021

Patient ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Ijust learned of Dr. Amundson's death today. I wouldn't be walking upright if it weren't for his gifted abilities that only the Lord and hard work gives. I am so sad for the families loss and the loss of an amazing physician. I'm so grateful for this kind man's life that he blessed all if us with. 2nd Corinthians 12:9

DARLA FLEMING Jun 15, 2021

PATIENT ,BELTON ,Missouri

I JUST TODAY FOUND OUT THAT THE DR AMUNDSON HAD PASSED AWAY. I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY I AM SO VERY SORRY AND MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY. HE WAS A VERY GOOD DOCTOR AND WILL BE MISSED BY MANY.

Glenda Huckabey Jul 08, 2021

Patient ,Prairie Village ,Kansas

I am stunned by this news. I am sincerely sorry for your loss. He was my surgeon thru 3 surgery's. I was looking for my medical records,I am now in Florida and having major symptoms (I didn't get a recheck from my surgery in March 2020, crushed Spinal cord) He saved my quality of life 3 times. I trusted him with my life. Please accept my deepest sympathy. He was a gifted Dr.

Tonya Carpenter Jul 18, 2021

Patient ,Mound City ,Kansas

I am completely saddened to hear of the wonderful Doctor's passing. I was a patient for 24 years under his care. I have never had such an amazing doctor. He operated on me 3 times each time was successful. So very sorry for your loss.

Ken Rimmer Aug 03, 2021

Spouse of Patient ,Lee’s Summit ,Missouri

So sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Amundson. We remember his great bedside manner and willingness to tackle my wife’s back issues while others refused. Very successful I might add. Now that it has been over 6 months since his passing, we pray that God has given the family peace and continued comfort.

James Seery Jul 19, 2022

Dr. Amundson did both my back surgeries.. After the first he wanted to do an MRI and check something.. that something turned out to be a high grade, fast growing tumor in my bladder and a pancreatic cyst.. thankfully him seeing something on an x-ray unrelated to my back surgery they were able to catch my cancer before it had spread through my bladder wall..I credit him with being over 16 years cancer free. He will be deeply missed..

IVETTE s SANTANA Nov 09, 2022

Patient ,Independence ,Missouri

I was looking for Dr. Amundson to set up an appointment after 7 years hoping he could see me. He diagnosed me by listening to me. He was correct too. With one look of my MRI he could clearly see what I had and he looked devastated because I was and still am young for this type of back issues. I wish he was here because I would trust him completely with my back in the surgery he was recommending that I could not get back then. I am so sorry for your loss.

Ardie Ferrin Jan 22, 2023

Patient ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I just happened to see that Dr Admundson had passed away. He was an amazing man and Doctor. He did 3 of my 4 back surgeries and 2 that were related to MRSA. I believe he saved my life when I developed this infection. He will be missed.

Lana Northup Mar 16, 2024

Patient ,Wamego ,Kansas

I was so blessed to be recommended to have Dr. Amundson see me over chronic back pain. My surgery was successful. When I was home from surgery, I developed an infection. Dr. Amundson immediately set up a 3-doctor care team. He was so caring and on top of the problem. He told me consequences of an unstable back if we didn’t work hard at this. He told me that I must do exactly as the care team instructed. He also set me up with nightly antibiotic drips at my local hospital and I healed well. He was so delighted that I healed well. I could tell he genuinely cared. Recently I had a friend who had a spinal problem and I was looking up Dr. Amundson to refer her to and only found him in obituaries. It saddened me so. I healed greatly and have not had any pain for years. God bless his family.