Mr. Gregory Patrick Roberts

Mr. Gregory Patrick Roberts, age 72, went home to be with the Lord on the Anniversary of the Last Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima, Sunday, October 13, 2013. His passing occurred at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center amid the love, prayers, and comfort of music offered by his family who were by his side. Born in Rome, NY on March 12, 1941, Gregory was the son of the late John Henry and Mary Margaret (O’Brien) Roberts. He was a graduate of the St. Aloysius Academy Class of 1959. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Greg honorably served his country in a MASH unit in Korea and was also stationed in France during the Berlin Air Lift. Upon completion of his military service, he attended M.V.C.C. where he earned an Associates Degree in Business Management. On August 8, 1964 he married the former Donna May Connors whom he met in the musical, Down Melody Lane. In love and harmony, they began a lifetime together that traversed 49 years. Their love, loyalty, friendship, and faith were the cornerstones of their commitment to one another. Greg began his working career at the Revere Copper & Brass Company as a machine operator. He concurrently began employment at Utica College in 1989; he held the positions of Pool Director as well as Building Supervisor of the Athletic Department until 2003 when he officially retired. He returned to Utica College in 2005 where he has been affiliated until his recent illness. He will be vividly remembered for his loyalty and his passionate nature supporting the mission of the College’s Athletic Program. Greg’s unselfish nature was reflected in his altruistic regard for all humanity. His sense of humor was witty and uplifting. He was light on his feet and dabbled in all dimensions of dancing, with everyone anticipating the time he would spend on the dance floor with them. Life was a giant song to Greg; his musical interests were vast and varied, participating in the barbershop quartet was paramount but he found much joy performing locally, within the community, in local theater, in his church, at sporting events, as well as at home. Outdoors, he engaged in trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, recreational golfing, a spectator of basketball, and rooting for the Utica College and SU sports teams. He enjoyed swimming, especially with his children when they were young. The sounds of nature soothed his soul, specifically the gentle rapids of the Black River where he and his family spent their summers at camp. His winter sports included skiing at Labrador Mountain where his daughters and grandchildren were in tow, allowing him another opportunity to be together, on the slopes. Seasonal celebrations were dear to Greg. St. Patrick’s Day was not only a religious holiday, but a recreational day as well. Christmas was filled with the sights and sounds of the season, delectable foods, but it was the Nativity set that was the focal point of his home. At Easter, no matter where they may have been, they all attended Mass; it was a solemn religious day complemented with family traditions. Greg was a member of the Elks Club, American Legion Adrean Post, and the Barbershop Harmony Society, through which he received the distinguished Barbershopper Award in 2012. He directed the Knights of the Mohawk Barbershop Chorus, and sang lead in a variety of Barbershop quartets. It was just one year ago that he was named the recipient of the Outstanding Service Award at Utica College. In 2013 he received the Adirondack Bank 12th Man Award, also in recognition of his dedication to U.C. Athletics. Greg’s close personal relationship with God began at his birth and grew throughout his life and it was his faith that sustained him during his home going journey. St. Peter’s Church in Rome was his home parish and his participation in the Faith Community, including the choir, at Our Lady of the Rosary Church has been a spiritual sanctuary for almost 20 years. Greg is survived by his true love, Donna; his cherished daughters and sons-in-law, Maureen Roberts Bruce of Yorkville, Kathleen and Eriksen Stropp of Brewerton, and Carolyn R. and Derek Wolfanger of Dewitt; and “the Best” grandchildren anyone could ask for, Corinne, and Daniel Bruce; Kelly, and Shane Stropp; Ryan Gregory, and Dylan Derek Wolfanger. Also left to remember this good man are his brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard P. Roberts, John and Natalie Roberts, William and Elaine Roberts, and James and Laura “Mimi” Roberts; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and brothers-in-law Ben Hoskins, US Air Force/Retired, and Donald Harwood. Greg was also blessed with many wonderful friends, with mention of Jim Murnane, who was his brother in faith. He was predeceased by his sister, Mary Hoskins; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Albert T. and Margaret M. Connors; and his sisters-in-law, Barbara Roberts, and Marie Harwood. The family accords appreciation to the physicians, nurses, and staff at Upstate Medical University Hospital; the physicians, nurses, and support staff at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially the personnel of the Critical Care Unit for the individualized attention given to Greg. The spiritual support of Fr. Felix Colosimo, Fr. Edmund Castronovo, and Fr. Paul Drobin were truly heartfelt and deeply appreciated; thanks also to Greg’s Utica College family for their love and dedication. Visitation will be held Thursday from 3:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The family will remain until all visitors have been seen. Gregory’s wish was for his loved ones to offer a recitation of the Rosary at the conclusion of visitation for which all are welcome. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be considered to the Greg Roberts Award for Athletics at Utica College; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Greg’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by his pastor, Rev. Felix Colosimo as well as concelebrating clergy. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery with military honors.

Mr. Gregory Patrick Roberts

March 12, 1941 - October 13, 2013