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Gregory Podgorny Obituary

PODGORNY WINSTON-SALEM - Gregory Podgorny, 42, passed away February 9, 2009. He was born and raised in Winston-Salem, where he graduated from Bishop McGuinness High School. He received his undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, from UNC-Greensboro and then went on to earn a Master' s Degree in Fine Arts from there as well. He was an artist who sculpted, painted, built furniture, and made armor. His creations were shown in galleries across the country and featured in multiple television shows and feature films. He is survived by his father, George Podgorny, M.D.; his sister, Adele and her husband, Keith, and children, Jordan and Sophia; his brother, Eman and his wife, Dianne; and his brother, George, Jr. The family will be having a private service. Hayworth Miller is assisting the family with arrangements. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Humane Society.

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Published by Winston-Salem Journal on Feb. 15, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Podgorny

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Joe Romanoski

February 9, 2024

Greg, I sure miss you buddy... I'm hoping that you are at peace and in the hands of God! I was just looking at print outs of our cartoon characters that we made for the holistic pet product line, Ratty Stinky-tinkle lives on forever...

Richard Willis

February 9, 2024

15 years since we lost our buddy.I will never forget you Greg.

Shauna Kuhne

October 25, 2023

I have such great memories of Greg, I miss him so much. I know he had so many people that loved him.
Shauna Kuhne

Joe Romanoski

February 9, 2023

Greg I will always remember you so fondly for your artistic creativity and your great soul! I know at times I've reached that edge too. Remember your stories about your grandfather and I always felt your soul was destined for greatness! You achieved it and so much! Rest in peace forever!

Richard Willis

February 9, 2023

Remembering Greg on this 14th anniversary of his passing. I hope heaven is filled with Greg's creations. He had the ability to create beautiful art with just his hands and his imagination....Always thinking of you buddy.

Simon Sherbourne

March 18, 2021

Greg was a tremendously passionate person with rare talents in many areas. In my recent attempt to reconnect with him and reminisce about our UNC-G years together in the Fine Arts program, I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing. He had a heart of gold and immense capacity for creativity.

Donna Podgorny

February 18, 2018

Dear Podgorny Family of Winston-Salem,
I am very sorry for the loss of your son, Greg Podgorny. I found this page when looking for the obituary of my cousin, Greg Podgorny, who died a few years ago of ALS in Colorado. I had heard of the Podgorny family in Winston-Salem from a friend, Lou Baldwin, who fondly remembered the Podgorny family. Growing up in California, I never knew anyone with the Podgorny last name. My father grew up in Rockford, IL of Polish heritage whose parents came from Limanowa and Krakow. His father always said that if one were to meet a Podgorny in the US, they would be Polish and Roman Catholic. During years in the navy, my father looked up the name Podgorny in every telephone book he found. He met Podgornys who were Jewish and Roman Catholic; who came from Poland, Russia, Czechoslovakia and Lithuania. If you are interested in discussing Podgorny heritage you can email me at [email protected]
Again, please accept my sympathy for your loss.

Michael Urban

April 9, 2017

I am saddened to see the passing of my old friend. My best wishes to his family from my family. Prayers will always come your way for the loss of such a great soul. Michael Urban 85'

Karen Kraus

March 10, 2009

I am so saddened to read about my high school friend Greg. We had great times at basketball games and cracking up in class. Greg took me out to dinner ~7 years ago when I went to California on business. He talked for hours about his sister and brothers, and of course, his Grandfather. We laughed like old times. Condolences to Greg's family and friends. Karen Kraus, BMHS class of '85

Tim Fox

March 7, 2009

Greg was a great guy and his memory is eternal..

Renza Wallace

March 6, 2009

To all who celebrate Greg's life:
An artist is a spirit that exists in a different dimension than ours.

That's why not everyone is an artist.

The artist's spirit doesn't fit in the physical norms of this world... the norms of this world that are full of physical and materialistic needs. An artist's spirit feeds itself from the perfection of it's art...the applause and the admiration ...to satisfy it's existence.

To know an artist is very possible..to understand an artist is almost impossible..we don't speak his language.

That's why not everyone is an artist.

Greg, an artist, has disappeared but in his wake has left a lasting impression in our minds.

Stacy (Tyndall) Stevens

March 3, 2009

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. I will always remember his warm smile and gentle hug when we were at school or swim meets or soccer. I hope "Little Pod" you have found peace.

Beth Newton

February 26, 2009

Many prayers and Masses are being offered for Greg, his family, and all those who knew and loved him. His loss will always be felt...he touched so many lives in ways he probably never even realized.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him...I know Greg is with God...may he rest in peace.

Beth (Joy) Newton
BMHS Class of "85

Salt

February 26, 2009

Greg was very good to me. When we met at UNCG he was one of the few who made me feel welcome. He was always generous with his time, always fun to be around, and we never had a cross word between us. I will always remember the rascal in his eyes, the sincerity of his smile, and the warmth of his presence in my life. Mahalo.

Nicole Pulliam

February 26, 2009

I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember when I met Greg out here in Los Angeles and we went to a party together. He was so cute and so sweet. I was drawn to him immedietly. I will say a prayer for the whole family. Love Always, Nicole Pulliam

Sandi Mabe

February 25, 2009

To the Podgorny Family-
I was saddened to learn that Greg had passed away. I always had fond memories of my days at the Elk's pool when the Podgorny family came bouncing in. Greg was always full of life. Please know that my prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Eva Kennedy Kinder

February 24, 2009

To The Podgorny family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all, Greg was a funny and an amazing person! he will be missed!

Marita Fegley

February 23, 2009

To the Podgorny family -
I have such wonderful memories of my 2 years at BMHS - and many of them revolved around you all. So many lives and hearts have been touched wonderfully over the years. I treasure so many fun and happy memories. I hope you can find solace in knowing how loved Greg is - and you all are. With my deepest sympathies and prayers. Marita

Jennifer (Branen) McKeon

February 23, 2009

"All the beautiful sentiments in the world weigh less than a single lovely action." James Russell Lowell

Greg's best friend Brian challenged us to do something kind in Greg's honor, something he might have done. Most times these acts are "paid forward". It is nice to think that if we all do this the world will me slightly more lovely in Greg's name.

I have accepted this challenge and it has been helping me heal, but there will always be a place in my heart for Greg.

Jennifer Walters Deets

February 23, 2009

Dear Podgorny family – I hope it comforts you in some small measure to know your sorrow is widely shared.

Greg’s name came up recently in our family conversation when I was telling my kids about the ways a small school permits rich friendships to develop. I remember those years well and Greg was an important part of them. I was always awed by his drawing skills from his sketches in his notebooks, to class projects, to the lion we had on our t-shirt at St. Leo’s. Such amazing talent. I laugh when I remember long hours at recess playing various running games and Greg’s joyful athleticism. Always on the go and always with a smile.

I send along condolences from my mother and sister, Petie Walters and Barbara Walters, and well as those from my own family.

Pamela Glosser

February 22, 2009

Do not stand
at my grave and weep
I am not there,
I do not sleep.

I am a thousand
winds that blow.
I am the diamond
glints on snow.

I am the sunlight
On the ripened grain.
I am the gentle
Autumn's rain.

When you awaken
in the morning hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in
circled flight.
I am the soft stars
that shine at night.

Do not stand
at my grave and cry.
I am not there.
I did not die.

-Hopi Prayer


Greg will always be in our hearts and minds, forever....
With Love and deepest sympathy/empathy for the loss of your loved one, to the Podgorny Family and my dear friend, Christina....

Carl Brickman

February 22, 2009

When I heard the news of Greg Podgorny’s passing my thoughts turned to my feelings of how the Podgorny family was a phenomenal influence on so many of the peers of the Podgorny children. Their four kids were perhaps 6 years apart and they carved an indelible swath in the lives of many during their elementary through high school years.

Personally, I can still remember the first time Adele spoke to me in 7th grade and how her elegance and smile almost physically knocked me over, to the day I drove her home from my senior year’s prom party which was at my parent’s house. My memories of life and basketball with Eman and George, Jr. are vivid, and in winning those championships we also experienced once-in-a-lifetime elation that could not be more genuine. It would be inappropriate not to mention that mother Ernestine was a “den mother” to hundreds of kids – she delved out more than a million pieces of candy; she remembered my love of her baklava and always seems to have a piece for me.

Although few heard about it, and funerals are deliberate after a death (so people find out too late), nonetheless, George, Jr. was the only BMHS classmate who came to my father’s funeral.

In a crazy world were few are as fortunate, my childhood was blessed and the Podgorny’s are an inseparable part of my memories of it. They are that rare class of people who have much, but who give far more in ways that are impossible to count and make us all believe in the good of humanity.

Marguerite Krause (McGillan)

February 21, 2009

Dear Podgorny Family,
My thoughts are with your during such a difficult time. Greg was a great guy who always seemed to have a smile for everyone and had such an infectious personality. I will continue to keep you all in my prayers.

Chris Everhart

February 21, 2009

Dr. Podgorny, Eman, George,
I was very sorry to hear the news regarding Greg. I know that this is a difficult time for you, so please know that each of you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember Greg for the enjoyable times that we had during our high school and college days. Greg was a great friend to me and someone that I could count on if I needed help. I pray that God will give you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Kathleen (McGillan) Trench

February 20, 2009

I am sorry for your loss, although it has been many years since I last saw Greg, I will always remember him. May God Bless you all and keep you close.

Randall Sprinkle

February 20, 2009

TO Dr. Podgorny, Adele, Eman and George Jr,

Words truly can not express or adequately capture the pain and sorrow we feel at the loss of a loved one. Still, I send my most heartfelt condolences and love to you all.
Greg was a scuplture of smiles and love and YOU ALL were the artists!
My prayers and tears are with you.
With deepest sympathy,
Randy Sprinkle

Terry O'Connor

February 19, 2009

Deepest sympathy and regret to the entire Podgorny family, and to all those that were closest to Greg. Everyone who knew him would agree that the measure of his loss would be hard to count.

Peace in passing over Greg.

Julie (Morgan) Johnson

February 19, 2009

Adele, Eman, and George, I was heart-broken to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

Billi Jo (Nelson) Butler

February 19, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. From an old classmate of St. Leo's who always remembered your kindness.

(Fr.) Marc Capizzi

February 19, 2009

Dr. Podgorny and family,
With many prayers for Greg and you all, I am deeply sorry to hear of his death. I offered Mass for him yesterday and will keep you all in my daily prayers. May Our Lady give you comfort and bring Greg speedily to his place in heaven.

Michael Donnelly

February 18, 2009

Greg has a great heart and a greater soul. He is a true reflection of his wonderful family.

Pat O'Neil

February 18, 2009

To Dr. Podgorny, Adele, Eman and George,

What a life Greg is! So much infectious energy and enthusiasm. It has been years, but you can feel Greg's presence now in a flashing thought, sparking a smile, eliciting a little laugh. We are grateful for his gift and it will endure.

Peace to all of you, please accept our thoughts and prayers,

LuAnne Whiteheart

February 18, 2009

I met Greg when I was 9 years old on an optimist soccer team where I was the only girl. Greg was my knight in shining armour.He never picked on me,took the ball from me or yelled at me when I made a mistake like the other boys did. Greg always defended me and cheered me on. I will never forget that. The last time I saw him, at a wedding, we reminisced about our soccer days and he actually remembered a goal I had saved that season. I remember it too and how he hugged me and congratulated me at the time. Greg never changed he was always kind and supportive. What a loss for this world. My prayers are with Greg, and his family.

Drew Hofmann

February 18, 2009

To all of the Podgorny Family,

I feel for you in this tough time. I knew Greg as a child and a young man. I can still see the Leo the Lion he painted as a child that hung in the St. Leo's gym for years. The last time I saw him was during a difficult time in my life and he offered words of encouragement and wisdom.

A true artist, I am sure he never lost that inner child.

God Bless

John McMonagle

February 18, 2009

Dr. Podgorny, Adele, Eman and George
When I heard, I thought a brother of mine has just passed away. Greg was the most loyal person I have ever met, and I will never forget the many times he stuck up for me or steered me in the correct direction in tough times. I will never forget him. My thoughts are with you all.

Kristi Papp Bush

February 18, 2009

My deepest sympathies to the Podgorny Family and to all those that knew and loved Greg. His smile will be missed.

Brian & Kate Kane Family

February 18, 2009

He lived every moment with a depth and a passion that were uniquely his own. We'll see you again someday, buddy. Save us a spot.

Nicol Husemeier

February 18, 2009

Greg~At one of our many retreats at Bishop, we were given a task of saying something about another classmate that really meant a lot to us. And out of the entire class, you chose to say to me that you appreciated my constant smile and warmth. You etched my life forever at that moment and I have never ever forgotten you for that. You are in my thoughts and prayers. All my love~Nicol

Kaaren Stuart

February 18, 2009

Prayers for healing and peace for your family. Greg had a smile that will never be forgotten.

Brian Peebles

February 18, 2009

It's because of Greg that I got an "A" in a class that I probably would've failed. His generosity and patience are just 2 of the many reasons he made a great teacher.

Mike Morgan

February 17, 2009

Adele, Eman, and George, very sorry to hear of your loss. God Bless you all.

Laura Shields (Smith) Bishop'85

February 17, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep your family in my prayers.

Anna Papp Freifeld

February 17, 2009

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to you all. Although Greg was a couple of years younger than I, I have very fond memories of him throughout our years at both St. Leo's and BMHS. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Johnny Attayek

February 17, 2009

Eman, Adele, George, and Dr. Pod,

When I heard the news of Greg's passing from my sister Joanie, I was shocked and saddened. Although we've not seen each other much over the past years, we are family and share a special bond from days gone by.

I've had the privilege of visiting with Eman just recently on the slopes of Beaver Creek with some of my old friends and have fond memories of my college days with Adele at UNC.

I hurt for your loss and wish you all inner peace and contentment during this time of grief.

All our love,
Johnny, Pam and Caroline
(along with all the Attayek family)

Michele Kennedy Trantham

February 17, 2009

Adele, Eman and George - Just wanted you to know how sorry I am and that all of you and your entire family are in my prayers!

Sister Trudy Helder

February 17, 2009

It is so good to have this piece for communication! I saw you all a few weeks before your Mom died and we all had a good laugh. That is the picture I will always carry in my heart. You were all different as students but each of you good and caring children. My the happy memories carry you through the rest of your years with your wonderful brother Greg. I will remember your family in my daily Mass.

THE BOYS

February 17, 2009

Michael Taylor

February 17, 2009

Your Kindess will always be remembered.

Barbara Marrujo Dascenzo

February 17, 2009

Adele, Eman and George please know how sorry we are for your loss. You prayed for the Marrujos when we lost our father and know our prayers are with you in turn. May you comfort each other during this difficult time. God Bless

Elizabeth Lamb Strachan

February 17, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time.

Jeanne Kinney Villahermosa

February 17, 2009

My heartfelt sympathy go to the Podgorney family. Although I'm an old acquaintance from the old St.Leo's/Bishop days, I remember Greg as a fun, sweet guy who will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to his family.

Christina Calabria

February 17, 2009

Greg, You touched my life in so many ways. How blessed I was to experience your love for so many years. I know you know peace now. My heart goes out to all who knew you. To know you was to love you.

Your eternal love,
Christina

I plan on starting a foundation in Greg's honor to distribute art supplies to kids. Please feel free to contact me...

Mary norris

February 17, 2009

Podgorny Family- My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Greg was a special person who always had a smile on his face, and a way of befriending all he met! God bless all of you. Mary Karnbach Norris(BMHS'82)

Rose Chrismon

February 17, 2009

I send my condolences to Christina and to the Podgorny family.

Richard Willis

February 16, 2009

I just wanted to say that I am so sorry for the Podgorny family.I am a friend in California. I miss you already Greg and I am so sorry that you are gone.I know that you are a man of honor and I will always remember you that way my friend.Until we meet again buddy.

caroline smith

February 16, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. Greg had such amazing artistry, but more importantly was a dear friend to many. He will be missed.

Mark Walsh

February 16, 2009

My prayers and thoughts are with your family.May God help you through your tough times. Adele your brother was a bright spot in my life.He was a big guy with a big heart.

Brad Rabil

February 16, 2009

I am very sorry for all the Podgorny family for the loss of Greg. Even though I did not see him much the last few years. I will miss him dearly. I loved him like family.

Pam Lynch

February 16, 2009

What a creative soul Greg was. My thoughts and prayers go out to Greg's family and everyone who was a part of his life, especially Christina.

Mary Ann Azevedo

February 16, 2009

To the Podgorny family -- I can't begin to express the depth of my sorrow for your, and the world's, loss. Greg was very very special to me. We met at UNCG and despite our distance over the years, I always held him close to my heart. He was compassionate, kind, sensitive, enormously talented, so smart and just one of the most incredible people I have ever encountered. I would do anything to help honor his memory as it deserves to be honored.

Ralph Gaillard

February 16, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss; I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

Clare McMonagle Ritter

February 16, 2009

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Ruth Hanna Strong

February 16, 2009

Words continue to fail.

My thoughts and prayers are with all those who knew and loved Greg.

February 16, 2009

George, Adele,
I am so sorry for your loss; it saddened me deeply, thinking about this world and what people experience in it, and how much they have to endure; my thoughts and prayers are with you, please accept.

natalia tuchina, winston-salem, nc

Joanie Attayek

February 16, 2009

Dr. Podgorny, Adele, Eman, George, Bernice, Ronnie and your families--I cannot find a single word that could possibly express our sorrow for this incredible loss. I can only envision Greg dancing with Ernestine & Grandpa at the gates of heaven!

Your family is truly special and a part of our family. ALL our love and prayers for your peace,

Joanie
along with Margaret, JoJo & Evy, Pat & Ronnie, Mike & Tish, Danny & Karen, Johnny & Pam

Mary Golden-Hughes

February 16, 2009

Greg always knew how to make others smile. From our early uniformed days at St. Leo's school to the teenage-angst-ridden halls of BMHS, Greg's compassion for others and creative outlook on life always shone through and lifted those around him. He was a gifted spirit, a good friend and an inspiring talent. My love and prayers go to him and his family now and always.

Laura Hulett Byrth

February 16, 2009

I am sorry for your loss. I have only good memories of Greg from the swim team and Bishop McGuinness. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Kim Osmon

February 15, 2009

I picked Greg up at his hotel in LA several years ago and promised him that I would introduce him to my Warner Bros. animation team. He was so excited to be surrounded by images of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck! I will never forget the look in his eyes as he went from office to office meeting my comrades and talking about his love for animation. Another time we attended an animation event where we were able to meet several artists. He brought his portfolio and shared his artwork and his love of animation with like minded souls. We then headed to his sister's house where I saw his metal artwork for the first time. In the car on the way, he told me the story of his family history. He inspired me with his stories and told me to never sell myself short. I don't think I ever have and it meant so much to hear Greg say that to me that day. I needed those words then and somehow he knew it.

Artists feel things more deeply than others. That is probably why we connected so well in highschool and particularly on that day. I will miss you Greg and your words of encouragement.

My prayers go out to the Podgorny family.

Jim Human

February 15, 2009

I am sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to the Podgorny family.

Jim Human / Bishop McGuinness 85'

Molly Mulqueen Wall

February 15, 2009

I am very sorry for your loss. I remember Greg as a very kind young man. Bishop McGuinness Class of 86.

Bill Smith

February 15, 2009

I am shocked and saddened to hear of Greg's passing. I can remember the strong influence Greg had on my children in coaching them in swimming, years ago. My heart goes out to Adele, Eman and George and his father, Dr. Podgorny, at this time. My prayers and my deepest sympathy are with you.

Autumn Rabil

February 15, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Jamie Doyle (Joyner)

February 15, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with the Podgorny family.

troy wallace

February 15, 2009

i am so sorry for your loss. greg was a very close and special friend to me and there will always be a hole in my heart from losing him. if there is anything i can do to help your family, please let me know as i wish to honor greg in any way i can. he and your family will always be in my prayers.

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