Gene Elton Gregory was called home by our heavenly Father on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at the age of 84. He passed peacefully in his home at The Faerland Terrace Community, Seattle, WA.
This beloved husband and father was born on October 19, 1928 to Elmer Alvin and Zella Jane Gregory (Smith) in Ellensburg, WA, one of three children. He graduated from Aberdeen High School, attended Grays Harbor Community College and served in the US Marine Corp. Gene retired from the Boeing Company in 1989, after 35 years of service and an unsurpassed work ethic. He was a member and Past Worshipful Master of the St. Andrew’s Masonic Lodge #35, Free & Accepted Masons, a member and three time Worthy Patron of Tyee #122, Order of the Eastern Star, and an Associate Guardian of Jobs Daughters, Bethel #45, in Renton, WA. In his younger years, he was also a member and PTA President for Skyway Elementary School and a Cubmaster for the Cub Scouts, also in Renton, WA. In addition, for several years he volunteered and was an avid election poller, one who assisted you during your voting experience.
In December 1948, Gene married Dorothy Barkley in Ellensburg, WA. Their mothers worked together and they came to know each other when they were young children. Settling in Renton, WA, their union brought four children into the world: Cindy, Lynn, Randy and Dana.
Activities he enjoyed: photography, family, gardening, wood working, bowling, family, square dancing, puzzles, games with the family, travelling in his fifth wheel with the love of his life, and watching Mariners/Seahawks games. As you can see, most importantly, the highlight of his life was spending time with his family.
Gene was known for his special gifts: his endearing love for Dorothy and his family; his love and warmth for others; an infectious smile that made you smile just simply being in his company; always a twinkle in his eyes; a hand shake that made you know how special you were; a righteous character; an honest demeanor; a most sincere, caring, and helpful volunteer with whatever needed to be done; a memory that was hard for others to surpass, especially with the dedication he had for his ritualistic work in the masonic orders. He was a loving and gentle soul, an incredible Husband, Father, and a Friend to many – he loved life itself. He was very proud to be a Gregory!
He is survived by his wife of 64 years Dorothy, sister Madelyn Carlson (Duane), sister Mari Hubbard (Jerry), daughter Cindy Hope (Bill), son Lynn (Sharon), son Randy (Francesca), and son Dana (Celeste) – grandchildren Bill Hope (Janiece), Kristine Petesch (Steven), Kate, Elizabeth – great-grandchild Andrew Hope, and, oh, so many nieces and nephews that adored him.
Gene was preceded in passing by his mother Zella, father Elmer, brother Glenn, and sister Betty Miller.
The family extends a warm invitation to join with them at the Memorial for Gene and a celebration of his life on Sunday, May 19, 2013, @ 2:00pm at the St. Andrews Masonic Temple, 505 Williams Ave S, Renton, WA 98055. Reception to follow.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. ~Psalm 23.