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BORN
1942
DIED
2015
FUNERAL HOME
Edward Gryska Obituary
Edward J. Gryska, age 72. Passed away suddenly of a massive heart attack.
Beloved son of Edward L. and the late Sylvia, nee Rendak; loving brother of Walter (Diane Flottemesch) and Raymond; cherished uncle of Lisa, Jeffrey, Thaddeus, Grant and Leslie; also aunts, uncles and cousins.
Ed was the founder and Producing Artistic Director of the Salt Lake City Acting Company. He was the co-writer of the play SATURDAY'S VOYEUR, which is Utah's longest running musical satire. In 1990 he was honored by the Salt Lake City Chamber of Commerce for outstanding contributions to Utah's cultural heritage. He founded EJG Productions in Las Vegas and produced and directed A CHRISTMAS CAROL for the past six consecutive years. Ed began his career as an educator and was very proud of his work with special education children.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday January 24, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Turibius Church, 5646 S. Karlov Ave. Chicago, IL. 60629. A Memorial Service will take place in Salt Lake City on January 27, 2015 at Desert Star Playhouse and in Las Vegas on February 6, 2015 at the Performing Arts Center. For information contact Richard J. Modell Funeral Home & Cremation Services (773) 767-4730 or www.rjmodellfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Edward Gryska
Sponsored by G Martinez Funeral Home (formerly Richard J. Modell).
6 Entries
Stuart McDonald
April 24, 2015
Thanks for everything, Ed. The SLAC production of "Pippin" in fall 1978 was so much fun. And thanks for the trip afterward to San Francisco where you introduced me to Utah native Larry who I shortly thereafter moved in with as my first undocumented spouse.
Don Gomes
February 11, 2015
An infectious laugh, an inclusive and welcoming manner, and creative genius. Ed always brought out the best and had the best to say about everyone - even in the aftermath of his unceremonious departure from his beloved SLAC. I learned a lot from him. Ed's personal and professional family will miss him deeply.
Warren Page
January 27, 2015
Ed was a warm, wonderful man. Working with Ed at Cottonwood High School and Salt Lake Acting Company's production of "Hair" was a delight.
He had such a wonderful giggle!
January 23, 2015
The world has lost a gentle soul. Ed touched and taught so many people with patience and humility. I remember his absolute glee at being able to mount plays in-the-round at Cottonwood High School. I remember his unceasing labor at "getting those jokes" absolutely right in "Saturday's Voyeur." They were never crude nor hurtful---just hilariously funny. I remember those sensational (at the time) off-beat plays at the Unitarian Church and his giggle when someone gasped in the audience. I remember his joy at being able to produce plays in Las Vegas, matching the glamor and sound of the city. And I remember his dogs...his family..that he tended with such loving care. We will all miss him greatly.
Lily Havey
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Barbara & Gene Koziol
January 23, 2015
I am so sorry about Eddy's death. He was always happy, smiling & I will never forget his wonderful laugh. When we were much younger, we often went on double dates. I was dating the young man who would become my husband and Eddy was dating friends of mine and young ladies he knew. We had really good times.I am so disappointed that I won't be able to attend the Mass for Eddy. He will be in our prayers tomorrow and forever. We will have a Mass said for him at our church and enroll him in a spiritual memorial. Our deepest sympathy to Uncle Eddy, Wally, Ray and all the family on your loss of Eddy & Aunt Sylvia. We are so very shocked & sorry. All our love.
Lois Green
January 21, 2015
Ed was a vibrant and loving neighbor and colleague at Cottonwood High in Salt Lake City. His creativity kept us all in thrall.
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G Martinez Funeral Home (formerly Richard J. Modell)5725 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60629
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