Obituary of Greg Grondin

GRONDIN- Gregory John of St. Thomas passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Campus on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at the age of 77.  Beloved husband and best friend of Cathy Grondin; loving father of Lindsay (Dane) Rice and adoring Papa of their son Jack.  Dear brother of Walter (Sheila) Grondin of Burlington, Martha Willis of Kitchener, Gerald Grondin of Amherstburg; late Mary Grondin (Kim Chow) of Cobourg, late Jane Grondin of St. Thomas; and brother-in-law to Tim (Diane) Allen of Blenheim.  Greg will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews and by his dear friends the Putman, Lawrence, and Truax families. 

Greg lived his life with grace, kindness and a joyful spirit. His faith, family and community filled his heart.  He loved travelling, reading, walking, table games, chess, curling, wood working and carving. Greg was a wonderful friend to many. He enjoyed good times entertaining friends with his wife Cathy and sharing laughs poolside.  

In the latter years of his life, Greg’s greatest joy was spending time with his grandson Jack and celebrating in his sport and academic achievements.

After transitioning from a career in chemistry and water pollution, he became an elementary school science teacher, Vice Principal and Special Education Coordinator. He was a lifelong learner and teacher. He enjoyed an elite trip to China with fellow educators from America to share math knowledge and education styles. Greg shared his gifts and talents with so many people, including home renovations with his son in law.

Greg has left an indelible mark on all of whom were lucky to know him.  We will miss his caring demeanour, contagious laugh, his love of family and appetite for learning.

Always a selfless volunteer he spent years dedicating his life to the community in several ways: St. Thomas Public Library Board (Board President for over 20 years), Friends of the Library, the Old St. Thomas Church Cemetery Board, and a leader of Community Outreach Dinners for over 30 years. 

As a long-time member of Trinity Anglican and St. Thomas Anglican Church he played many active leadership roles and held the position of treasurer and warden. He participated at the Diocesan level in a variety of committees and workshop opportunities.

A memorial service to celebrate Greg’s life will be held at the St. Thomas Anglican Church 20 Flora Street, St. Thomas on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 1:00 pm.  Visitation at the church one hour prior to the service.  The family will also greet and meet with family and friends in the church hall after the service.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570).  If desired, donations to Project Tiny Hope (YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin), St. Thomas Public Library, or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.  Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.sjfh.ca