Gary Greksa

1945 - 2025

Gary James Greksa, age 80, passed away on September 28, 2025, in Miami, Florida.

Born on May 5, 1945, in Pittsburgh, Gary was raised in Oakmont, PA, where he graduated from Oakmont High School and went on to attend Grove City College. There, he met wife, Elaine Edwards.

Gary graduated from college with a mechanical engineering degree and commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He completed pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas and remained there as an instructor pilot and check airman on the T-38 aircraft. He went on to serve as a C-130 aircraft commander in Taiwan and the Republic of Vietnam, flying missions that awarded him with The Air Medal and Distinguished Flying Crosses for meritorious service.

Following his military service, Gary's aviation career continued in Miami as a captain with Eastern Airlines and ValuJet and training pilots at Flight Safety International. He also flew globally as a DC-10 captain and check airman with Gemini Air Cargo. When federal age restrictions prohibited his flying, Gary transitioned to an administrative role with Gemini and later moved to Boeing Flight Training in Miami, where he served as a simulator instructor pilot, check airman, and FAA designee.

Gary is survived by his wife Elaine; nephews Gregory M. Greksa (Amy) and Jeffrey T. Greksa; grandnieces Natalie and Lauren; and grandnephew Camron. He was preceded in death by his brothers Martin T. Greksa and David M. Greksa.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Donations in Gary's memory may be made to Baptist Health's Miami Cancer Institute at baptisthealthgiving.net (designate Miami Cancer Institute and Tribute Gift) or by mail to Baptist Health Foundation, P.O. Box 748853, Atlanta, GA 30374.