Gregory Obenchain

Gregory Thomas Obenchain, 57, born June 4, 1968 in Norfolk, Va. passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 29 at home in Chesapeake, Va. Greg was the son of Harry T. and Virginia K. Obenchain of Chesapeake, Va. Greg is survived by his sister Jennifer O. Cole and two nieces, Sera O. Cole and Hallie R. Cole of Charleston, S.C. as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Greg graduated from Indian River High School, Old Dominion University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, and George Washington University earning a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management. Greg was a Registered Professional Engineer in the state of VA. His 35 year professional career was specifically devoted to electrical distribution systems design, construction, and maintenance. He worked for numerous electrical cooperatives, power companies, U.S. Dept. of the Navy, and trade organizations throughout his career.

Greg’s childhood years in the Indian River section of Chesapeake consisted of participating in the recreation league sports including baseball, football, and basketball, Cub Scouts where he earned the Arrow of Light rank and Boy Scouts where he earned the top rank of Eagle Scout. As an adult, Greg continued his passion for scouting by leading Cub Scout Packs in Northern Va. Greg enjoyed camping and hiking throughout his life. Greg was an active member of the Oaklette United Methodist Church Youth Program where he participated in numerous youth activities including mission trips to N.C. and S.C.

Greg continued displaying his faith in God during his ten year tenure while working for Consumers Energy Company in Jackson, Mi. He was an active member of the Jackson Free Methodist Church. During 2017 Greg participated in a week long mission trip with Jackson Free Methodist to Burundi, Africa, one of the poorest countries in the world. Faith and service were always very important aspects of Greg’s life. Greg was a caring, loving person who never stepped away from providing mental or financial support to those he felt were in need of it. Our Lord Jesus Christ was always a cornerstone for Greg throughout his life from childhood to his last day on this Earth.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Dr., Chesapeake, Va. 23325 on Saturday, August 23 at 11:00 AM followed by a reception in the Church Social Hall. Greg will be buried at a later date in the Montvale Presbyterian Cemetery in Montvale, Va. where, as a young boy, he used to love to spend time with his Grandmothers King and Obenchain.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the American Red Cross where Greg was a Life Donor.