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GREGORY GARBO Obituary

GARBO, Gregory D., 32, of Tampa, passed away June 12, 2011. A summa cum laude master's degreed graduate of the University of Florida, Greg held a contractors license, a private pilot's license and loved water sports. He was predeceased by his brother, Eric Scott Garbo. Survivors include his mother, Debbie Garbo Vodopija, her husband, Lex; and his father, Rick Garbo of St. Petersburg, Fla. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Please offer your condolences at tbo.com. The family will have a private celebration of Greg's life at a later date.

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Published by TBO.com on Jun. 15, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for GREGORY GARBO

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Helen Minici

June 9, 2025

We were just talking about you Greg. John and I were remembering you with the many times we were together having fun. Still can´t believe you are gone.

Helen Minici

June 9, 2024

It is now 13 years since we last saw Greg. My family and I think of him often. So sad.

Peg Minici

June 9, 2023

I think of Greg very often. I knew him when he was a little boy and as an adult. He always had that great smile. I remember him as a safety patrol and how much he loved the boat. We vacationed with he and his family. Wonderful memories. My heart breaks for Debbie. My heart breaks for all the Mothers and Fathers that have lost their kids way to young. Hopefully we will be reunited with our loved ones again.

Nancy Sells

April 27, 2023

Debbie & Rick, I recently learned about Greg's passing. To say I was stunned is an understatement. He and our Matthew (Odyssey of the Mind) were classmates at Essrig. We lost Matthew in September 2011 to suicide. I am so sorry to hear about Greg and also about his brother, Eric, who was our daughter's age. Though it's been several years, please know we share in your sorrow. - Nancy & Dale Sells

Helen Minici

June 9, 2021

I can’t believe it has been 10 years. I miss him.

Lex Vodopija

July 12, 2012

Greg,
I know you can see this. We love you and miss you. Your mother reamins strong with periods of heaviness on heart heart that even I can not relieve. I know you are at ease. You will always remain in our hearts.

Lex

Meggan Marquand

July 11, 2011

Greg and I were roommates for a short period of time, but we became close friends very quickly. There was never a conversation that he didn't make me laugh. He had captivating eyes,a huge contagious smile, and an even bigger heart. He found good where there was bad, and he always had the right words of comfort. He was brilliant, and could be counted on for good advice. He always had a hilarious story of some crazy thing that could only happen to Greg. The Lord took him too soon, but he did live an abundant life. I think about and pray often for Greg, and especially his mother. He was a big part of my life in many ways in such a short amount of time, and I miss him very much. He most certainly will never be forgotten.

Jose,Roselyn,Jose III and Christian Prieto

July 9, 2011

We just learned about Greg passing yesterday. We feel deeply sad about this sudden schocking news. As well about Eric's. As we knew Greg, as a good friend of our son, he was a very fine promising young man. Please receive our most deepest and sincere condolences. Earth has lost two sons but heaven rejoices because Greg and Eric had reunited in peace!!!!

Wendy S

June 22, 2011

There are some moments in time you wish you could press the “Rewind” button. This is one of those. Not one of us wanted to hear this news.
I met Greg 5 years ago and was fortunate to get to know him in a way that most did not. Poolside Leisure had just refinished the interior of our pool, and while he was in our backyard on a follow-up call my dog bit him on the leg. A couple of weeks later I got a phone call from Greg, and I thought “uh-oh, this guy’s gonna sue me”. But it turned out to be a job offer (we had recently moved to the Tampa area and his mom was our realtor & she knew I was looking for employment.) Working closely with someone 5 days a week for 3 years, you get to know the good, bad, and ugly about your colleague. Greg never disappointed with stories of his life, adventures, and exploits. He lived life head-on.
I respected him as a business owner. He was savvy, innovative, and always working on ‘the next best thing’. He believed in himself and his business and firmly held his ground on every issue. In the 3 years we worked together, he lobbied consistently for greater oversight by the city, county & state against unlicensed contractors. We successfully grew from a company performing leak detections and small pool repair service calls to one doing complete pool area remodels and custom construction. We had to close the office in the fall of 2009, but what many people didn’t know is that Greg cared about his staff enough to help us find jobs with other companies – I don’t mean just the usual recommendations, I’m talking about actual phone calls and real jobs.
He may have had a big ego, but he had an even bigger heart.
This loss has left a huge hole in the lives of everyone who knew him. I myself will never forget the guy with the beautiful smile, hearty laugh, and disarming blue eyes.
Greg, you are finally free. Give Maddie a great big hug from me!!

Amber Boles

June 21, 2011

Debbie and Family - Your son and I were good friends. Even though time had passed between us, he called me just to touch base every couple of months, right up until about six weeks ago. He was so sweet, and had this way of making me feel like I was the most important person in the world each time I spoke with him. I know thats how he made everyone feel. He helped me through a very, very difficult time in my life through many conversations and encouraging words. I have and do think of him so frequently, fondly, and with unbridled adoration. My world was so much brighter for having known your son. I will miss him very much.

Mark Mirabella

June 21, 2011

Greg and I became friends our Junior year of High School. I did not go to Jesuit, so we would hang out on the weekends. Though we lost touch over the years, I always remeber him as very witty, and always having the ability to make me laugh. I was shocked to hear of his untimely passing, but know that I will cherish the memories from our days in high school. I will keep your family in my prayers.

Courtney Renee Brucker

June 21, 2011

Dear Debbie;
I was very close to Eric, and met Greg when he moved to Tampa. This news was devestating to hear. First Eric, and now Greg. My heart bleeds for you and your family. I pray you find peace and solice in knowing that the two of them are together now in heaven.

Gene & Jo Vogel

June 20, 2011

Dear Debbie,
While Jo & I never met your son, Greg, we can see based on the comments about him and his accompishments in life, that he was quite a talented and truly nice young man. We are truly sorry about your loss, and hope that the love you had for each other will help you through this difficult time.

Frank Coto

June 20, 2011

Frank and Nicole Coto will be hosting a Pool Style Celebration of Life for Greg at our house in Odessa on Tuesday the 21st at 3pm. We will be swimming, BBQ, and remembering Greg in just the way he would want us to. Call 813-265-8352 for directions. Close friends and family welcome.

Scott Heinrich

June 18, 2011

Greg you are now in a better place and I pray that you have found happiness. Debbie my prayers are with you. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Greg. He was a great person and friend and he will be forever missed by lots. God bless you and your family.

Linda Ford

June 17, 2011

Debbie,
I've known you and Greg for thirty years... long enough to know you as a great Mom and abiding supporter and cheerleader for Greg... I know Greg as a sweet child who aimed to please and had an unstoppable enthusiasm for life. My heart and prayers are with you.

Kathy Pyle

June 17, 2011

Debbie,
Thru Jeff I have known both your boys, and having a son I can only let you know that my prayers are for you and your family in your great loss. If we can do or say anything to help just a call and we are there.
Kathy Pyle

Katie Messerschmitt

June 17, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Greg was a friend of mine. I will never forget that contagious smile. Lots of great memories of Greg and Maddie (the dog) that I will never forget.....

Jackie Dioguardi

June 17, 2011

Debbie,

Even though I didn't have enough time to really get to know Greg, the few times I have spent with him will forever be remembered. Your amazingly contagious spirit lived in him and was apparent to everyone around him. I wish you and my Uncle Lex strength to carry on and live through the precious memories you both hold. You are such a ridiculously loving, special person and I know he knew how lucky he was to have a mother, and friend like you. You, and Uncle Lex are in my prayers and I love you both so much!

Regan Evers

June 17, 2011

Debbie, I'm so very sorry for the lose of Greg. He was so smart and so much fun. I know how much you loved your boys and what a great mom you were to both of them. You have two angels looking after you from heaven. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Bonnie Primo

June 17, 2011

Hi, I met Greg when he was a Rough Rider at a Parade. His smile was so charismatic, he made friends quite easily. He had a glowing personality and it seemed as though nothing was beyond his reach. I am extremely sad for your loss.

Corey Rose

June 17, 2011

I'm so sorry Debbie. I loved both of your sons as if they were my own brothers. I wish there was something I could do or say but I am at a loss for words. Your children were one of a kind, kindred souls. I loved them both dearly!!!!!!! As I sit here typing this I can only feel sorrow and pain. If there is anything and I do mean anything that I can do please let me know. My deepest condolences go out to you and the rest of your family. Sincerely Yours, Corey Rose.

Jaime Lindsay Verberne

June 16, 2011

Greg was a wonderful childhood friend of mine. I'll never forget his dog pulling him down our street on a skateboard or the tree house forts he built. He was like a brother to me. He shook his head when he didn't approve of my boyfriends and learned to do a waltz with me when no one else would! Debbie, Lex and Rick please know that your boys touched the heart of many and that they are greatly missed.

June 16, 2011

Debbie, I last saw Greg the day of Eric's funeral and remember wishing he was just a little younger so I could fix him up with my younger daughter ---- such an impressive and wonderful guy! I have no words for the sadness of his loss to the world. I am so very, very sorry that you, such a wonderful person, are in this place again of deepest grief. Take care . . .
Karol

Nahid Daemi

June 16, 2011

My dearest Debbie, I can't begin to express my sorrow, so instead I just want you to know how much Eric & Greg are loved & will be remembered forever. Thank God we had Kobe's, it will always be a memorable experience. All of sitting around having fun & laughing. Just remember Greg's sweet smile. My family & I have known each other for 15 years & consider you family & will always be here for you. - Love, Nahid...

Margie McIntyre

June 16, 2011

Debbie,
Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for your loss. We are constantly thinking of you. We have many fond memories of Greg. The "Do" boy as he was fondly named. And of course the "Golden Boy". And that he was. His brilliant little mind was constantly thinking and creating. His smile was electrifying and his sense of humor was wonderful. We will hold our fond memories of him forever. We love you and care for you deeply. God Speed

Mike, Margie, Liz and Maddy

Linda & Chuck Crusemire

June 16, 2011

Dear Debbie and Lex,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Bob & Bonnie French

June 16, 2011

Bob and I want to express our sincere sympathy to Greg's family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at such a very difficult time. We never got to spend a great deal of time with Greg, but each time we did we admired his intelligence, marvelous sense of humor, his beautiful smile and his truly caring heart. He will be truly missed. We first met him when he was in high school and have always been pleased when we would hear of his successes. Such a sad, sad loss.

Bob and Bonnie French

Danielle (Poritz) Peters

June 16, 2011

I went to school with Eric when I was very young and I remember playdates where we played with Greg too. I shared a childhood with Greg's friend Bear (Clayton) and therefore often saw he and Greg tooling around. I have nothing but good memories of them.

I can not fathom how painful this is for Eric and Greg's family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you peace.

Jodi Pavlica Izzo

June 16, 2011

Dearest Gregory, we've shared countless good times over the last decade. Our years at UF are solidified in my mind with such joy. Your loyalty to me as a friend was unsurpassed and you always knew how to bring a smile to my face. Words will never do justice for the place you have in my heart, and there will forever be a void with your passing. You recently wrote me a passage with a picture attached of us from Gator Growl 2008... Every word you said was true.
Debbie my thoughts and prayers are with you. Reading everyone's entries, I hope that you are able to find some comfort in the wonderful job you did and how he was such a shining smiling light for so many people. God Bless.

Ann and Stan

June 15, 2011

Dearest Debbie all that Greg was is because of you. So much of what is going on today is just too harsh and so very insensitive for such a giving and loving gentle giant as Greg.
So many times you just can't run fast enough to cover all the bases. We loved knowing him and he will be with us always. Ann and Stan

June 15, 2011

Dear Debbie,

Our hearts are breaking for you with the loss of Greg, and of course, Eric before him. We will forever keep them in our hearts as we remember all the wonderful and fun times we all enjoyed together. Though no one can imagine the unbearable suffering you must be experiencing, we love you and want to express our sincere condolences.

Love,
Linda (Buffalo Grove, IL)

Angela Bosio

June 15, 2011

Garbo Family...please know your son was a good man...a good friend and will missed by so many friends...I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.

Nancy Beachum

June 15, 2011

Debbie, I am so sorry to hear about Greg. I can't believe you have lost another child. It is more than any Mother should have to bear. I didn't know Greg as an adult, but I remember the stories you told me about his constant smile, as a child. I remember going into your house the day you brought him home after his birth. I walked into the dining room and there he was in his pumpkin seat, sound asleep, satisfied and peaceful. He is in my prayers. My heart is breaking for your sorrow. You will remain in my prayers. I am so glad that you have Lex in your life.
Love You,
Nancy Beachum

Ron & Rita Maloney

June 15, 2011

Debbie, Lex, our heart goes out to you both, for the bond of mother and child shall be one of the strongest bonds to ever exist, know that God always has a plan and that he blessed you with 32 years of memories. It was a true pleasure to have met Greg and shared the unity of your recent marriage, we too have great memories, he shall be missed dearly, again, our heart felt condolences to you and your family. Love you both!!!!

Clayton Long

June 15, 2011

I've been friends with Greg as long as I can remember. We worked together for his mom in high school, we hung out together, we went SCUBA diving together and we got in trouble together - he even went to my highschool prom (and neither he nor his date attended my school - weird, right?).

When I was a kid, I used to go over to Greg's house for dinner - somehow I always seemed to show up at dinner time (one of my many gifts). I played quarter poker with Greg and his family. And I almost always lost. Maybe that was their way of recouping some of the cost of the food I consumed at their house :)

When I was 14, Greg recruited me to help him with his lawn mowing business. And I think it was that same year, or maybe the year after that I went with Garbos to spend a few days at lake where I heard they had actually upped the minimum age for boat rentals due to an incident that occurred the year prior with Eric renting a boat.

Come to think of it, Greg was in most of my childhood memories and many of my recent memories.

Greg was a good friend and I will miss him.

Susan Long

June 15, 2011

I've known Greg since he was a little guy. He always had a smile and he and my son played and made trouble together. My heart bleeds for you, Debbie. Losing a child is the worst thing anyone can imagine. Losing two is unbearable. Greg was a sweetheart. I wish I had seen more of him in recent years.

Susan Long (Tampa, FL)

Nick Suszynski

June 15, 2011

Please accept my most sincere condolences for Greg's untimely passing. He was a good man, and he is already deeply missed, but please know he will not be forgotten.

Because he graduated from Jesuit High School, Jesuit will honor him with a special brick engraved with his name and year of graduation. It will be placed in the courtyard that surrounds St. Anthony's Chapel. Greg's brick will be installed for the Alumni Memorial Mass on October 30th at 10am in St. Anthony's Chapel.

All are invited to attend. There is no cost for this brick as it is paid for by Jesuit High School in appreciation to Greg's family for sending him there, and for Greg's successful completion from Jesuit.

A.M.D.G.,

Nick Suszynski

Joe Papier

June 15, 2011

Debbie, there is no greater bond in life as that between a parent and child. Our absolute deepest and sincere condolences are with you as you grieve. Linda and I vividly remember the good times when our our boys were children and those fond memories will always be cherished.

Jessie Wilcox

June 15, 2011

Greg was such a beautiful soul. I will always have a place in my heart for you. I feel so fortunate that you were in my life, and I will miss you dearly.

June 15, 2011

Dear Debbie,

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May your memories of Greg be a blessing for you to help you go forward. Thinking of you and wishing you love and good wishes always. Love, Anita P. Carangelo

Mrs. Green

June 15, 2011

Dear Mrs. Purple,

You and I are in an exclusive club of which only you and I can truly understand each other and know the right words to say. I remember when I first met you and our kids were so little and innocent. I was somewhat envious that you had boys cause I wanted to have a least one boy. As the years went by, I was slowing realizing that I was happy with my girls playing with Barbie dolls etc. rather than with snakes, lizards etc.
As Kim would say, Maaaa, lets go over to the Adams Family house for a swim.
I remember once Greg has his monitor swimming in the pool while inviting my girls to jump in with that sly look on his face. I also remember the time you and I sat by your pool trying to enjoy a light conversation and being unable to hear anything because your mice (food for the snake) were shall I say, enjoying each other's company. My family never knew what to expect from your family, and I remember thinking another adventure at the Garbos. I also remember the twitch in my daughters mouths when I said we would be eating dinner with the Garbos, or going on vacation with the Garbos. They were always a little apprehensive, which I thought and still do think was quite funny, and really looking back don't blame them. Your boys were so full of life, were mischevous, always wanting to pull pranks. As our children grew up they loved each other so much. Kim thought that Greg was her little brother and Eric her protector. The Greg I knew was affectionate, sensitive and loved his mother very much. I always thought of him as the son I never had and will miss him dearly. I know that in the future we will be able to sit and remember our lives, the good times and the bad times. That is if you can remember my room number in Shady Oaks. Just remember "Green"

I love you and pray for you

Your friend
Mrs. Green

Patricia Bingham

June 15, 2011

God Bless you, Greg. I'm shocked to learn of your passing. It was a joy to know you and your smile that never seemed to go away. My heart goes out to Greg's family at this difficult time.

Clayton Long

June 15, 2011

I've been friends with Greg as long as I can remember. We worked together in high school, we hung out together, we went SCUBA diving together and we got in trouble together - he even went to my highschool prom (and neither he nor his date attended my school - weird, right?).

Greg was a good friend and I will miss him.

Shawn & Farah Sutter

June 15, 2011

June 15, 2011
GREG was a shining star! He was an intelligent, handsome & caring man. We will miss him more than words can say. God now has both of his angels with him, Eric & Greg. They will both always be loved & remembered. God bless Lex for being here for you Debbie. You all are in our prayers. I am always here for you. Please stay strong, that's what they both would have wanted. We love you....
Shawn & Farah Sutter

Ben Kelly

June 15, 2011

God Bless you!

Greg gives his Mother to me

Lex Vodopija

June 15, 2011

Greg entered my life when I met his mother more than 3 years ago. Just last year he presented Debbie to me at our wedding. In the short time I knew him I grew to love him as my own.

We vacationed in Tahoe with my kids, skiing and snowboarding. We cruised the Caribbean together. He often invited my family and friends to his Lake Home for Boating and Barbecuing.

He was a Handsome Gentleman and often when he went to dinner with us, I was amazed at how many people came to our table to say hello as he had quite a large group of friends and admirers.

He always amazed me with his knowledge of so many topics, he bordered on genius in my eyes. His respect for his Mother and acceptance of me in the family made me proud to be part of his life. I love him deeply and felt comfortable to call him my friend as well as my Stepson.

A Pilot, Diver, Boater, lover of animals, expert in firearms, Motorcyclist, a Philanthropist with the Rough Riders, he was always enjoying life and the people around him.

I love him deeply as if he were my own and will keep him in my heart forever.

God Bless you Greg you will be missed greatly by many.

Connie Hammond

June 15, 2011

Dear Debbie, I cannot even begin to imagine the depth of your sorrow at this time. I am so sorry for your loss of Greg and for what you and your family are going through right now. I will keep you in my prayers that you find strength now and peace soon.

Jamie

June 15, 2011

My prayers are with you. Greg captured my heart and changed my life in many ways. He will never be forgotten. All my love.

Cindy Valenti

June 15, 2011

Debbie, our hearts are saddened by the loss of your son, Greg. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of great sorrow, and for the days to come. Love, Wayne and Cindy

To my handsome son...You will be forever in my heart.

Mom

June 15, 2011

Shawn & Farah Sutter

June 15, 2011

GREG was a shining star! He was an intelligent, handsome & caring man. We will miss him more than words can say. God now has both of his angels with him, Eric & Greg. They will both always be loved & remembered. God bless Lex for being here for you Debbie. You all are in our prayers. I am always here for you. Please stay strong, that's what they both would have wanted. We love you....
Shawn & Farah Sutter

Paula Smith

June 15, 2011

Debbie, my heart goes out to you at this time of the loss of your son. I will keep you in my prayers

Nancy Giles

June 15, 2011

Dear Debbie and Family, There is nothing anyone can say except, I am so, so sorry! My heart aches for you. I am sending you a hug and pray for strength to walk through this difficult time! You are loved here at the office Debbie. Sending my love, Nancy

June 15, 2011

I have always loved and admired Greg. Greg was present on many of our family vacations and outings. He always had a great sense of humor and made everyone laugh. He was always thoughtful of everyone's feelings. Our world will be a sadder place without him. With his passing another chip of me is gone.

My boys loved you Greg. When they heard you were gone they cried for hours. We all cry because we will miss seeing you. Love The Minici Family

kristen malave

June 15, 2011

Thinking of you Debbie and praying for your strength. Eric, Greg, and Kim are all together just as I remember them growing up. We are very sorry for what you are going through. Love Kristen and Alex

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