William J. Gregg

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Gregg, William J. "Bill" Age 89, of Roseville. We lost a proud member of the greatest generation; we are grateful for his service. Bill passed away peacefully at home, October 5, 2014, surrounded by his family. Preceded in death by beloved wife Jean; son Michael; brother James Gregorich and sister Dorothy Marolt. He leaves behind his family; children Kevin (Norma), Mary (Steve) Howe, Paul (Cecelia), Mark (Kate), Joan (Paul) Nordick & Daniel (Suzanne); grandchildren Stacy, Anna, Sebastian, Maggie, Ilia, Billy, Mary, Dominic, Peter, Katie, John, Betsy and Patrick; great-grandchildren Evelyn, Russell, Wesley and Bruce; sister Pat DePaul; brother-in-law Rudy Marlot; sisters-in-law Mary Lou Viger and Eleanor Gregorich and many nieces and nephews. Bill is fondly remembered for his integrity, strength of character and commitment to his family and many friends. Bill graduated from Eveleth HS and entered the United States Army Air Corps. He remained in the service until succumbing to enemy fire on his 34th combat mission over Linz, Austria in 1945. He was awarded two Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. After a long rehabilitation, he returned home, graduated from the College of St. Thomas, and married his high school sweetheart. The couple moved to Washington D.C. where Bill attended The Catholic University of America and earned a Masters Degree in Hospital Administration. After returning to the Twin Cities, he held various health care positions, including Administrator of the MN Veterans Home. Bill concluded his career with an appointment by Governor Perpich to his cabinet as Commissioner of Veteran's Affairs for the State of Minnesota, where he served 8 years. Bill was passionate about ensuring that veterans received the highest quality of healthcare. A true servant leader, he helped many fellow veterans navigate the complexity of the healthcare system. Mass of Christian Burial 10 AM Tuesday, October 14 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church (2131 Fairview Ave, Roseville). Visitation Monday, October 13 from 5-7 PM at the Roseville Memorial Chapel (2245 N. Hamline Ave, Roseville 651-631-2727) and for one hour prior to Mass. Interment at For Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Croix Hospice. Roseville Memorial Chapel

Published on October 12, 2014