Michael Lewis Gregory

1946 - 2023

GREGORY, Michael Lewis
It is with immense sadness and heartbreak that we announce the sudden passing of our Michael Lewis Gregory. Born August 29, 1946. Taken away by Angels January 27, 2023. He was my loving husband, partner in everything and best friend for 23 amazing years. Michael was born and raised in Victoria, BC. He often shared stories of his past growing up in Esquimalt (for which he was very proud) … little league, soccer, old vehicles, working for Esquimalt Municipality, reminiscing about his adventurous overseas trip with his friend back in their 20's, tree planting and so much more.
Michael completed all of his education in Victoria, including his Masters Degree at the University of Victoria. 'Mr. G.' was a beloved elementary school teacher, coach, administrator and colleague throughout his 35 years with the Greater Victoria School District. He positively influenced and touched many lives during his career and he continued to be fondly remembered long after his retirement in 2004. Stories still surfaced years later from former students … like when 'Mr. G.' would drive them to games in his 'cool' Camaro! He went on to work with International students through SD61 for a bit after retirement.
Michael loved his sports. He was an avid golfer and 50 year member at the Gorge Vale Golf Club and he also enjoyed all of the golf trips away with his golf buddies over the years. Slow-pitch was his favourite game of choice in his earlier years. It's been shared by friends that #44 was a great pitcher by those who knew and played with him. Michael also loved to play basketball and old timers hockey into his retirement years. Throughout the years we were able to take in several live professional sporting events such as NHL, CFL, NFL, MLB and NBA. Without a doubt, and thanks to a former student working for the Dallas Mavs, a highlight for Michael during these times was having the opportunity to meet Dirk Nowitzki and sit in Mark Cuban's seats courtside at one of the several NBA games we attended. He loved to tell that story to anyone who would listen … and tell it way more than once!
In addition to road trips to sporting events, we were able to travel frequently to other places like Mexico, Cuba, Hawaii, Dominican Republic, Palm Springs, Washington/Oregon/California Coasts, Whistler, Alaska, river rafting the Thompson River, wine tasting tours in the Okanagan, cycling the Kettle Valley and travelling around Vancouver Island. Michael was just as happy to hang around home, work in the yard, go for bike rides, hit balls at the driving range, attend local sporting/ entertainment events, read books and spend time with family and friends.
More recently, Michael enjoyed our local getaways, going for his daily walks while chatting with folks along the way (who loved him, too), running errands, keeping up with the local, world, and sports news, as well as watching his most favourite teams play on TV … BC Lions, Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Blue Jays and Toronto Raptors. The Seahawks and Mariners would be a close second. But, mostly it was always in Michael's huge heart to make myself and his loved ones happy. He adored his daughter and grandsons and was always there for them when they needed him. And, although Michael didn't grow up with brothers, he found those brotherly qualities in two of his dearest life-long friends, Chuck and Bill.
Michael was genuinely a kind, loving, giving and caring human being who will be dearly missed by those he's left behind. He is predeceased by his parents, Pete and Betty Gregory for whom he took wonderful care of when they were alive. He leaves behind to mourn his devoted and loving wife Gina, daughter Alissa (Travers and his son Mateo), grandsons Liam and James, sisters Donna (David) and Marie and nieces Layla and Lucy, as well as many other loving and caring extended family members and friends. As so many people have expressed, Michael truly was 'one of the good guys!' Gone, but never ever forgotten in our hearts … we love you and miss you so much, MG. Rest easy my special love. Until we meet again … what the heart has once owned and had, it shall never lose.
We would like to wholeheartedly thank the incredible ICU staff at VGH for taking such good care of Michael and those of us at his bedside for 3 days, holding out hope with us that he would pull through. But, sadly Michael was unable to recover from his critical internal injuries sustained in a MVA days before. Our dear Michael passed away comfortably and peacefully with myself and my soul sister, Amir, lovingly by his side, holding his hands and talking to him gently as he left us all. Thank you also to those who have reached out and been so supportive during this very difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a favourite charity and having a 'cheers' to our Michael's wonderful life and how he touched each and everyone of us. No funeral by request, but possibly a COL at a later date.