Gregory J. Boehlert

Gregory J. Boehlert, age 61, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 6, 2013 at home with the love and support of his family. Born in Utica on July 13, 1951, Gregory was the son of Therese “Tess” (Murray) Boehlert and the late Gerald B. Boehlert. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1969. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he honorably served his country stationed in Germany. On St. Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1984, he married the love of his life Virginia K. Orsino. They were blessed with the joy and love that blossoms from an affectionate and supportive relationship. They were sensitive hearts and true soul mates. A dependable, hardworking man with a friendly nature, Greg was a perfect match for his chosen lines of work. He began his career at St. Elizabeth Hospital in the Maintenance Department. During his time of employment at the hospital, he was able to respond to a fellow employee who was in distress by successfully using the Heimlich Maneuver. He next operated an Archway Cookie franchise, and subsequently worked as a route man for Stroehmann’s Bakery and for Spano’s bakery. Greg was a good guy with time-honored values and an old-school outlook on life. He was kind-hearted, personable, fun-loving, knowledgeable about many subjects and able to debate with temerity. He was always there whenever someone needed help, especially the friends of his children to whom he was a father-figure and kindly called “Papa Bear”. He enjoyed himself and his life, and found pleasure at any party where he bravely danced with a bit of rhythm. He was a ‘handy man’ who could fix anything, and he explored his entrepreneurial skills as an aerial photographer of New York and Vermont landscapes. He challenged his mind by solving crossword puzzles and loved to listen to country and rock-and-roll music. Above all else, Greg loved to spend time with his family and friends whether at his camp in Remsen or “hanging out” at his home. All he needed was his rocking chair and a guitar to strum his favorite tunes. His greatest glory in life was the blessing of his children of whom he was so proud. He always made himself available for their individual needs and was the “rock of their lives”. Gregory is survived by his wife, Ginny; his children, Gregory G. Boehlert, Tessa V. Boehlert, Emily A. Boehlert, and Timothy Elias; and his mother, Therese. He also leaves behind his sisters and brothers-in-law, Marianne and Dee Mankad, Therese “T.C.” Boehlert, and Missy Boehlert Swald and husband Lester; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Timothy and Sharon Boehlert, Michael and Cindy Boehlert, Thomas and Sandy Boehlert; and Darlene Boehlert; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, especially Jeffrey Murray; mother-in-law Anna (Rosato) Orsino; in-laws Anthony Orsino, Alan and Kate Orsino, Raymond and Lisa Orsino, Victoria and Mark Zalocha, and Fredric and Colleen Orsino; and the many longtime, childhood, and special friends who have graced his life. He also leaves behind three Godchildren; David Mankad, Amy Alguire and Rayna Orsino. He was predeceased by his father, Gerald B. Boehlert, brother, Gerald M. Boehlert; and his father-in-law, Anthony Orsino. The family applauds the valiant efforts and support system of the Frankfort Hill Volunteer Fire Department, especially Ann and Larry Bohling; and the Emergency Medicine physicians and staff at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their kind and sensitive expertise in caring for Greg and his family. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit flowers. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Gregory's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Thursday morning at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Gregory J. Boehlert

July 13, 1951 - July 6, 2013