Lawrence Gregory

Lawrence Norman Gregory, age 91 passed away in the care of his family and devoted caregivers on Thursday March 15, 2012, from complications brought on by a heart attack suffered on December 26. He was born in Yacult, Washington to parents Marshall and Bertha Gregory. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years Isabelle Gregory and his four children Kathy Senner (Ron), Sandy Whitwell (Craig), Brian Gregory (Sheila) and Laurie Gray (Tom). In addition he leaves behind his sister Thelma Baumgartner, sisters-in-law Frances Brown, Irene Capurso and Lois Gregory. Lawrence was preceded in death by his brothers Stewart, Paul and his sister Phyllis Rock. With his family, Lawrence moved to Santa Clara Valley in 1933, at the height of the Depression. Like many, he worked at a variety of jobs to help support his family. His father passed away when he was fifteen, leaving him to help his mother care for the family of five children. In 1942-1943, two things happened that would frame his world. First, he met and married Isabelle Capurso, the love of his life, and his entry pass into the Italian community. He very much embraced the Catholic and Italian communities. Second, he joined Pacific Gas and Electric for what would become a forty-year career. His work centered on installing and maintaining electrical infrastructure, primarily in downtown San Jose. He retired in 1983 and enjoyed 28 years of leisure committed to family and travel. For many years his activities centered on church, school and family at Saint Joseph's Parish. In recent years he was a parishioner at Saint Martin of Tours. Square-dancing, fishing and cribbage were favorite pastimes. The outdoors was always special to him; he could identify any plant or animal and he loved the High Sierra. He lived a full and happy life always in the company of friends and family. His children were provided two luxuries in their lives: a Catholic education and great food. In his retirement years, he and his wife opened their home every Wednesday night for a meal that included all members of their children's family. Although this number grew to seventeen, everyone was encouraged to bring friends. Included in this group were the absolute joys of their lives, eight grandchildren Christine Senner, Caitlin and Jon Whitwell, Matt, Nicole, and Colin Gregory and Brendan and Natalie Gray. This weekly activity was such a special opportunity for him and his family and will always be remembered by those who joined in the event. Additional joy was brought to him by two-great grandchildren, Daxton Gregory and Elise Noble. Gone are the gatherings, but not the memories.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday March 21 at 7:00 P.M. at Saint Martin of Tours Church, 200 O'Connor Dr in San Jose. In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations are made to Hospice of the Valley, or a charity of your choice .