Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Greg of Akron

Greg Akron Obituary

Greg of Akron (Grego)

Greg died Thursday April 5, 2007 at Barberton Hospital.

He was born in Grand Rapids, Mich. June 22, 1940, son of Frederick and Kathryn Pussehl.

He leaves a son, Greg (Brigitte) Pussehl of California; beloved brother of, Mary (Jim) Natalli of Sagamore Hills, Andrea Skillcorn of Solon, and Judy (Jack) Betts of Missouri; grandchildren, Connor and Cameron; several nieces and nephews.

Greg was famous for the painting of custom vans in the 70's as well as race cars, glass etchings, motorcycles and art that is currently displayed in restaurants throughout Portage Lakes,Pennsylvania, and Florida. He was known by many and had several longtime friends who were by his side until his death. He loved and lived in Portage Lakes most of his life and will be greatly missed by all who knew him there. Special thanks to Craig Klucas, Robert (Bosco) and Sherry Vasco, and Tommy Mickow for always being there for him.

A celebration of his life will be held Wednesday April 11th at 2 p.m. at Rose Villa Restaurant at 368 Portage Lakes Dr. in Akron. Arrangements are being handled by (Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Funeral Home, 95 W. Waterloo Rd. 330-724-1281)

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Akron Beacon Journal from Apr. 8 to Apr. 9, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Greg Akron

73 Entries

Debra Smith

April 4, 2024

I miss you sooo much honey, i hope and pray you are with your mom and dad . I still Love you honey, not really liked anyone but you, and so ive made it alone 18 years! I built a bar 14 years ago , and bought a vette thats. Brand new, and a lexus 350 and a work car , a kia w 62,000 miles !!

Debbie

February 20, 2024

Hi honey, i havent visited for some time now, and ive missed you soo much, im still looking for u to walk in my bar There has never been anyone like you, and im still alone . I cant do it, but i expect to see you when my time comes, i love you honey, until...........

Rick Shank

February 14, 2009

Not long ago I discovered on you tube that the flying eagle 2 had been restored by a talented individual.This really took me back, and when I did a search on its original creator, I was shocked and saddened to find he had passed on. Greg was a major influence on me to become an airbrusher,and though I may never reach his level of talent, I have been at it for over thirty years now, and I still enjoy it as much as ever. It's a shame that not only are most of the custom vans of the seventies gone, so many of their creators are no longer with us either. Rest in peace Greg. You will be missed. Rick Shank

William Ramsay

February 8, 2009

I'm truly sorry to find out my idol Greg has passed away. I first met Greg when he painted a beautiful mural on the trunk lid of my 68 Z/28
"California Saga".

It was an early Sunday morning in I think 1970 that I arrived at his shop to pick the trunk lid up. The mural of a very sexy girl smiling was perfect and I was very pleased except I noticed it wasn't signed.

I asked Greg about it and he just laughed and yelled to someone in the shop. "Hey get this guy a Greg sticker!" not knowing Greg's sense of humor I was shocked..my idol was just going to put a decal on my trunk.

Greg then got his striping sword and signed the spoiler and added "The smile you send returns to you..Indian Wisdom.." I won many car shows with my Camaro and used Greg's style and ideas in my own race car lettering career... thankyou Greg..if your reading this somewhere in the cosmos..your the best...

Bill " The Preacher " Ramsay

December 31, 2008

Happy New Year Honey.... Still not a day the same without you.........

Frank Magoo

October 12, 2008

Greg's passing affected us here as well as all the others he touched in his lifetime, it's w/great sorrow that we say goodbye, but it's w/great joy that we remember the good times spent together, which were many.
As a fellow artist/pinstriper, the days around Greg were filled w/huge amounts of fun and learning, by both sides....goodbye my friend, till we meet again, we loved you then and we love you now...

August 5, 2008

You are now where you finally wanted to be laid to rest, I feel comfort knowing you are home now.........

Kathleen Mitchell

April 8, 2008

Your star still shines brightly in the night sky... your foorprints remain in my heart.
Kathleen

April 7, 2008

I haven't been able to find you in any of your regular spots for the last year, so here is where I come to tell you what I need to, you will not be here in a couple of days and I will have to carry you in my heart from now on.......Wish me luck Honey,,, you'll have to find me now..

February 14, 2008

Happy Valentines Day Honey, I am glad we spent your last one together..........

October 21, 2007

Happy Sweetest day Honey, I thought of our first at youngs 23 years ago, your still the sweetest.........

Gene Darrah

August 26, 2007

Grego,
Thank you for all of your fine works that you gifted us with, always an inspiration.
You are a true Akron Icon. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Eileen Shipman

August 11, 2007

Greg Jr., I am so sorry to hear about your dad's passing. I remember you bringing a print of his to school to show the class and I was just amazed. My sympathies to you and your family and friends.

Eileen (Adams) Shipman

greg cooper

August 6, 2007

being a pinstriper and painter i have been a fan of gregs since the 70s 3 years ago i aquired the flying eagle II and restored it.
after a long search, i talked to greg on the phone and made arrangements to meet him and show him the van. sad to say we never made it. the van will be with me till its my turn Coop

April 30, 2007

Honey,your home.

Victoria (Poki)

April 18, 2007

Greg (our son)
Your father will always be with you in heart and soul...he loved you so very much...we will all meet on the other side...your father loved life and he lived to the fullest

Donna & Dan

April 16, 2007

Dear Greg Jr and family.

We would like to extend our deepest sympathy for your loss.

It's still hard to believe we will never see Greg's smiling face or hear his infectious laughter again. We've known him since the days of the "Orange Boat" and the "Jab'n Cabin". He loved life, that's for sure.

His greatest artwork is the picture he painted in our hearts and memories.
.

Bill Allen (Snivley)

April 16, 2007

Greg was a tourist attraction. He was one of the brightest stars in a community of stars. The sky's going to be a little darker without him. Look up. You'll see.

Kara Regenos

April 13, 2007

Grego,
You truly were one of my most favorite people. You will be greatly missed.

John Frankovich Jr.

April 12, 2007

Grego Jr. and Family I"m sorry for your lost, your dad was great to me for many years, growing up with him was like haveing a second dad and I'll miss him dearly, I'll never forget Greg! He was a Great talent with his paintings. I"ve never seen someone just sit down and build a picture like he did. He was great at turning nothing into something even when he thought it wasn't good enough he would change it and it would be even better then the 1st. Again Myself and my family give are deepest thoughts to Grego Jr and family,

Cid Vance

April 11, 2007

Greg Junior and Family,

My sincere condolences to Greg Junior and all family members, may the lord be with you in your hours of grief.

Throughout our lives we meet many people. Very few leave this earth with the legacy Greg gave all of us. His remarkable talent will be treasured by all that had the honor of embracing his work. Greg's personality and outlook on life will always be remembered. I will cherish my memories of Greg working, playing the guitar and in general having a fine time.

May he rest in peace

Kathleen Mitchell

April 11, 2007

The Gift
It's like some people just come through our lives to bring us something. A gift, a blessing, a lesson to be learned- and that's why they're here.
He taught you something, I'll bet... that was his gift to you. He taught you all that, and then he left. Maybe he just didn't need to stay longer. He gave you the gift and then he was free to move on.
He was a special soul...
You will have that gift forever.

I will see you on the other side my friend where the canvas is filled with colors.
Kathleen

Al "WILKI" Wilkinson

April 11, 2007

We knew each other from the early days on N Hill,Dodies and other est.Always admired your talent,a true artist.

Frank & Lynn Pugliese

April 11, 2007

Dearest Grego
Be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspiration, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. Grego thank you for all your kind words and for your beautiful talent you shared with all of us.

Frank and Lynn Pugliese
Mt. Pleasant, Sc

ed buragas

April 11, 2007

GREGO WE WILL MISS YOU GREATLY, YOU HAVE A GREAT TALENT WE ALL WISH WE COULD HAVE, YOU MADE LOOK SO EASY,WE WORKED TOGEATHER ON MANY PROJECTS .YOU MADE MY CEDAR WORK LOOK GREAT!! ROUGH SAWN ED/ NORTH COAST IMPROVEMENTS

Don Lowe

April 11, 2007

I knew Grego from probably 45 years ago and would occasionally see him when I returned to Akron. Another talent he had was as a great banjo player.

Bill Davis

April 10, 2007

Greg, I will miss you. isaw your first Flying Eagle at a vanin and it was above the rest of the vans. Your work was barnone the best. Thanks for the great paint works. RSP My friend.

Steve Warr

April 10, 2007

To Gregg Jr. and Family,
My deepest sympathy. My thoughts and prayer's are with you.
Steve

Tuna and Tammy Huffman

April 10, 2007

Greg-o, All who knew you as well as the entire Portage Lakes family has lost as icon. I only wish I had a thimble full of your talent and laid-back attitude. The Lakes will never be the same!

Beth Eagon

April 10, 2007

I would like to extend my condolences to all friends and family of Grego. Portage Lakes has indeed lost an icon, however, Grego's legacy lives on through his artwork which is displayed throughout the Portage Lakes area. Although I will not be able to attend the "Celebration of Grego's Life", I will be there in thought and spirit, and to my friends that will be attending...toast Grego for me.

John"Phrog" Bugh Chairman: Heart of America Van Council

April 10, 2007

Greg will always be remembered in the vanning community for his innovative art work and murals. It was great to see Flying Eagle II restored at last years nationals. Greg will be missed by all who knew him and by all those who new his work, truly he was a pioneer in the vanning world.

Bob & Sherry Vasko

April 10, 2007

Such a Legend, such a guy!!! Friends can be close or away; but always a constant.... you will always be with us in our hearts. We'll get together again in the hereafter for 'your Caesar salads' and fried green tomatoes in your Palace.....till then "keep the shiny side up, catch 'ya on the flip"
Love be with you always!
Bosco & Sherry

JIM & CHRIS (THE UPPER DECK)

April 10, 2007

WE WILL MISS YOU GREGO. YOUR MEMEORY WILL LIVE ON IN THE MANY MIRROWS ABOVE THE HORSESHOE.

T&T Bergdorf

April 10, 2007

Great friend.
Great times.
Gone, but certainly not forgotten.

Tommy Mickow

April 9, 2007

So many memories I will always treasure...

Greg was my friend...

Friends Matter

.

Tommy Myl

April 9, 2007

Though Greg lettered a car for me in 68, beautifully painted and lettered three more cars for me in the next few years, I will remember him the most for the time we spent together at Vanke's garage and his love of CSN&Y in the old, relaxed days. He was a true friend in every way. I only wish I would have stayed in touch. His smile and spirit will live on. Godspeed, old friend. I will never forget you.

Eric Whetzel

April 9, 2007

To Grego's family and friends and Grego himself whereever he may be lurking today, my condolences to all of us. What a spirit the heavens have gained! The next time I see you and I ask you "Where the hell ya been?" I'm guessing we're going to have to pour up some Crown and have a talk. Till then my friend, thank you for all the color you brought to our lives, on the canvas and off.

Bill Sander

April 9, 2007

Greg;
You enjoyed everyday to its fullest. Like your t-shirt used to say: STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE YEARS. I remember the first bikes you painted for Rick in 68 and the last ones you painted here in Ft Lauderdale as well. We have lost a great guy and a true artist.
Bill Sander

Howard Furtak Midwest Vans Ltd.

April 9, 2007

Greg was an icon in the vanning community. I only met him once, but his smile and his artwork live on in the collections on vanning memorabilia around the world. I sold many of his mural decals at my van shop, and have had the pleasure to be part of the restoration of Flying Eagle II. The van now lives as a tribute to his talents. To his family I offer my condolences, and I am sure he is reunited with many at the big Van-In in the sky. Travel safely...you will be missed.

PISCAZZI AUTO BODY

April 9, 2007

YOUR MEMORY WILL STAY FAST GREGO, THE ARTWORK THAT YOU LEFT BEHIND WILL CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO STOP AND APPRECIATE ALL THAT WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN,AND REMIND US OF ALL WE TAKE FOR GRANTED, YOU ENJOYED LIFE TO THE FULLEST, AND YOU DID IT YOUR WAY, 'TILL WE MEET AGAIN, YOUR FAMILY AT PISCAZZI'S

THOMAS WOODWARD

April 9, 2007

THANKS FOR THE MANY MEMORIES. I WILL BE TOASTING YOU TONIGHT!!

Bud Congrove

April 9, 2007

I have known Grego for nearly 35 years. We shared many fun outings together and we always had a great time! He left an everlasting impression on me and he is someone you just can't soon forget. Best wishes to all his family and friends.

Sandy (Boyer) Kremer

April 9, 2007

Although it's been many, many years since I've seen you Greg, I have very fond memories of you hanging out at our restaurant in the 70's. Your talent was admired and you always had a wonderful sense of humor. Rest in peace my friend and may God Bless you and your family.

Don Skuza

April 9, 2007

I always look up to Greg for his "magic" with an air-brush. I learned a lot from him, but never could match his talent. Went to high school with him and hung around "Ginnys" with him. Sorry I didn't stay in touch.

LEE MILLER

April 9, 2007

Greg...not just a great artist, but a real legend in the art & painting community. Even when traveling the U.S. and doing signs on the road, people would ask if I knew Greg...Everyone knew him and his work, not just here at home. "A gifted man" who inspired many. God Bless! Lee

Debbie Rubino

April 9, 2007

My condolences to the family and his close friends. I have known Grego for over 20 years, and he was always part of the special mystical allurance of Portage Lakes. As referenced in so many of the entries, the Lakes has lost one of its very special people who has, indeed, left his talent among us.

rhiannon hutchison

April 9, 2007

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

grego,
i have lots of memories of you all the way back from when i was no more than knee high, and it got better as i got older. for example when i was around 10 i swore that when i grew up i would marry you. anyways the memories go on forever. you will be missed but never forgotten.
love,
Rhiannon (clucas) hutchison, byron, bailey,connor hutchison and dorothy (red) clucas

Jack and Susan Porter

April 9, 2007

It was always a pleasure to run into Grego and share great conversation. His talent will always remain beyond impressive. He will be missed by so many.

Jackee Allen

April 9, 2007

I never met Greg of Akron, but I saw his work on cars of several friends of mine from back in the old days of drag racing. The best days.

My heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends. His talent will never be forgotten

Melissa Ritterbusch

April 9, 2007

We shared some laughter and some tears. He will be missed. Trust in the Lord that he's in a better place with no sickness or pain.

Brenda Wilkie (Tuna's ex)

April 9, 2007

Grego may you have a permanent place at God's card table and may your glass never be empty. I will fondly remember having cocktails with you on many occassions at the Harbor. I moved away in '93 but would run into you on my excursions to the Lakes and it just doesn't seem possible that I won't run into you anymore but I am sure that I will see you at the big party in the sky one day!

Jolene

April 9, 2007

You were my favorite customer when I was the mgr. at Upper Deck - rest in peace Grego - you were a wonderful man

Brad

April 8, 2007

Although I never met Greg, I did admire his beautiful painting & airbrushing style. The vans he painted were works of art. RIP Greg, you will be missed but your legend will live on.

David Powell

April 8, 2007

After being a member of the vanning community for 29 years and seeing much of his work, I am saddened to hear of his passing. May his memory and works of art live on.

Craig

April 8, 2007

Gregman,
thanks for the lifes lessons,and all you taught me about the trade. our tour was great. you will be always on my mind.

Melissa Hughes

April 8, 2007

It's almost hard to imagine the Lakes without Grego. The artistry and inspired works he has left behind will serve as fond reminders of this man with incredible talent. He will be missed and remembered.

Cortney & Angelo Milone

April 8, 2007

Grego, Hows the potato chips up in heaven??? You will be missed by everyone!

Tracy Christ

April 8, 2007

Grego, you always greeted me as if I were someone special! You were such a gentle soul and thanks for your warm smile! My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends who loved you dearly. You truly will be missed, and your loss among the lakes family, as many before you, will be felt forever. Rest peacefully friend.

Joy Gross

April 8, 2007

Now you can be a pirate at 40 forever! You will be deeply missed!
Joy Gross Portage Lakes

Jim Newkirk

April 8, 2007

Gregg will surely be missed by the vanning community,thanks for the
great art you produced,RIP

Sandy Karamesines

April 8, 2007

Greg of Akron We are at a lose Thank you for the wonderful colors and lettering on my racecars that you and CRAZY did over the years for myself, Team Strange.Our fans will miss your art work and fun lettering. Thanks Chris "THE GREEK" Karamesines T/F 323

Cathy Carmichael and Everett Lovejoy

April 8, 2007

I am so saddened to hear of Gregs' passing. He was such a wonderful person and a very creative painter. His passing will not be forgotten-his artwork will always be there for us to remember him by.

Robert Cullom

April 8, 2007

GREG"O"
The guest that came to dinner and stayed a year. Our lost, a friend, a loved one, a true artist. You will be truely missed but in no way forgotten.

Your friends,
Martha, Robert(Crazy), Sean Cullom
KRAZIES KUSTOM EMPORIUM, INC. BOCA RATON, FL

Grego Junior

April 8, 2007

Thankyou all for the kind words. My father will be missed by many... His spirit will live in all. Portage Lakes will not be the same without him but it the spirit will live within each and every of one of us. Come celebrate his life this Wedenesday and show your love.

billy boa

April 8, 2007

Grego will always be remembered,and will never forget our love of native american, and all the paintings he had did for me. may he rest in peace. BILLY BOA

Jack Cooey

April 8, 2007

Thanks Grego, for the many memories. Check the "shootin stars" from the other side.I'll see you again some day, enjoy the flight.Oh, by the way, YOU'RE IT! "HIGHWAY HILTON"

John DeWitt

April 8, 2007

WOW! Fond memories of a very cool guy! Greg painted several cars for our showroom on N. Main St. The "Levi" Gremlin, a really wild
"Budweiser Gremlin". Showed the Bud car at many races and events! Did Greg ever own a pair of shoes? Often wondered what happened to him or where he was? God Bless him!

Terry,Sandy Holvey

April 8, 2007

May you be the Golden Eagle soaring high . You will be greatly missed but not forgotten Terry and Sandy Holvey

Terry Eggert

April 8, 2007

Grego & Family, Many years have passed since I last saw Grego who did many paintings and glass etchings for countless friends. His creative artistic personality always garded from anyone knowing his last name was as mystical as his personality. He had a kind hearted spirit and lived in the fast lane with countless legends throughout the world. He will be missed and certainly never duplicated as the "Indian Spirits" take him to the angels in heaven. Grego, you will be a hard act to follow. God Bless........

April 8, 2007

Thanks for the memories, fun and education.

Dennis Caetta

April 8, 2007

I was saddened to hear of Grego's passing. We met back in 1968, always enjoyed talking about cars and art with him. He put his trademark pinstripes on my Corvette and later asked me to create a painting for him of a local race car that he custom painted. The years after that, we met several times at the Harbor and our conversations always got back to cars and art. A good man and a fellow artist, i will miss him.

FreddY Schulz

April 8, 2007

May Gold Leaf Accents and Indian Feathers surround you on your eternal ride in the "Flying Eagle"
"The Lakes has lost one of our own"

Showing 1 - 73 of 73 results