Former Gleaner President and CEO Ellsworth Stout dies at 81

January 08, 2024

The Gleaner Society mourns the passing of former President and CEO Ellsworth L. Stout, who died Jan. 2, 2024, of unexpected, heart-related complications. Stout served 25 years with Gleaner Life, including as its eighth President until his retirement in 2012.

Stout came to the Society in 1987 as Director of Agent Development following 21 years of insurance sales experience. He also was familiar with the new Home Office’s surroundings in Adrian, Michigan, having graduated from Adrian High School in 1959. He majored in Business Administration at Michigan State University and, in 1964, joined the Michigan National Guard. He was with the 156th Signal Battalion and achieved the rank of first lieutenant and acting captain status prior to his honorable discharge in 1972.

After more than a decade with Gleaner Life, Stout was promoted to Vice President in 2000. He was appointed in 2008 as the Society’s eighth President during the difficult days of the Great Recession. Stout immediately reassured members of the Society’s fundamental strength. He promised superior service to members and agents rather than sweeping changes. “While some believe sweeping changes may be necessary, I believe we should look to our past to be successful in our future,” he wrote. The Society weathered the financial storm, and Stout’s tenure continued until his retirement on June 8, 2012. “I will always cherish my time with Gleaner, its members and sales representatives,” he wrote.

Service was important in other ways as well. Stout presided over Home Office Flag Day activities and local Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances that honored America’s military service members. He and his wife, Mary, showed their dedication after retirement through participation in Gleaner gatherings and numerous events. The memory of his warmth, leadership and service will remain a treasured legacy for those who knew him.