Gregory Applegarth Bacon

Lt. Colonel Gregory A. Bacon, a long-time resident of Sarasota, passed away Thursday, the 14th of December. Born February 1948 in Cambridge, MD, Greg moved to Siesta Key with his parents and brother in 1957. He grew up sailing with his family and continued spending time on boats throughout his life, including going on multiple cruises over the last several years to various international destinations. Greg was an avid music lover, leading the Riverview Marching Band in high school (Class of ’66), majoring in music education at Florida State University, and enjoying big-band favorites up until he passed away. Professionally, Greg spent the majority of his career with the Sarasota County Fire Department, joined Sarasota County Emergency Management Services in 1998, and retired from Sarasota County Emergency Management Services in 2006. He then joined the Manatee County Emergency Services in 2008, retiring in 2015. Many who knew Greg thought of him as the ultimate military man. He joined the Army, then joined the Army National Guard, spending time in Kuwait in the early 2000s, and retired in the rank of Lt. Colonel in 2006. In his final years, Greg spent his time working with the US Coast Guard, in the role of Auxiliary Operations Officer.

He leaves behind his children, Tina Krebs (Cary, NC), and David Bacon (Charlotte, NC), his brother, Edward F. Bacon, and his long-time partner, Jeanne Williams. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. He will be missed.

Services will be held on January 19th at 12:30 p.m. at Wiegand Brothers Funeral Home with graveside services following at 2:30 p.m. at the Sarasota National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Southeastern Guide Dogs to help support this wonderful organization that supports veterans.