Rey P Gregorius

Rey was born in Binalbagan Negros Occidental on Wednesday, January 27, 1943 in the Philippines. He was raised in Zarraga, Iloilo. He is the eldest of nine children to Benjamin Gregorius and Amalia Parrenas. He was the first in his family to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Commerce from the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City. He married Vanswinda Usalla on February 14, 1964 and their eldest daughter, Stephanie, was born in Jaro, Iloilo in 1965. Thru his employment with American Express, they were relocated to Guam where he helped open an office there. In 1979, their youngest, Penelope, was conceived and American Express relocated the family to San Diego, California in order for him to open a new office in La Jolla. Penelope was born shortly after their arrival to San Diego. He shared 62 years of marriage with Vanswinda.

He is survived by his wife, his two daughters, and his two grandsons, Christopher and Roman. Rey enjoyed life’s simple pleasures such as watching sports, rooting for the San Diego Padres, and other west coast teams such as the LA Lakers. He loved nature shows about animals and he loved music. His daughter Penelope recounts many memories of him blasting Prince, John Denver, John Lennon, Hall & Oates, Elvis and Genesis on the stereo. He especially loved to be a part of his children’s and grandchildren’s ceremonial accomplishments and often praised them for their hard work in school and employment and bragged to his family and friends. He was a simple man, with a good and kind heart, who never asked for very much.

Rey is deeply missed by his family. He will be remembered for his quiet and loving heart, his devotion to his family, and his enduring strength. His legacy will live on thru his children, grandchildren and all who knew and loved him. He will forever be in our hearts.

We wipe the tears from weeping eyes,

And look beyond the changing skies.

For Dad has found his sweet reward,

Forever safe beside the Lord.

No pain can touch his spirit now,

A crown of peace upon his brow.