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Gregory Duda Obituary

Duda, Gregory J. (54)
Died in his sleep early morning of heart failure on Wednesday, February 15. Greg was a well known chef in the Los Angeles and Chicago areas. He had a successful chain of bakeries, "Let Them Eat Cake" in Chicago before moving to Los Angeles where his beloved restaurant "Figs" was a popular neighborhood, home-cooking eatery. For the past five years, he was Executive Chef for Vance Events, a Los Angeles catering company. Gregory is survived by his partner of 28 years, Stephen Janiak. Also, brothers Michael, Ronald and Donald. He was the beloved son of the late Walter and Mildred Duda and brother of the late Terrance. He was dearly loved by his friends. A memorial is planned for Sunday, February 19, 2006. For information call 323-462-7721. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Gregory's name to the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, 1625 North Schrader Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028, (323) 993-7642.

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

Published by Los Angeles Times on Feb. 17, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
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Michele Hart

March 15, 2006

JoJo D'Amore [my late partner in life and business] and I loved Figs. We came to know and love Greg and Steven. I am so sorry to hear of his passing and send my sympathies to Steven.



I'm sure JoJo is eating Greg's wonderful cooking, now prepared effortlessly in Heaven.

Sophie (Bonnie) Bakos

March 6, 2006

Greg,

As your cousin I will remember the great times we had on Nagle. As we found our special talents, I cherish the great cakes you made for the family. You and your great sense of humor will be so missed by all who saw your broad smile. Have a cake ready for me at the back door of heaven, that's the only way I'll get in!



Love,

Bonnie

Virginia Pahl

February 18, 2006

Greg,

Your mother and I were raised like sisters, so a nephew to me you will always be. You were also my godson, baptism made that for me. The memory of days gone by are always in my mind - of the parties, the business and how hard you worked to succeed. The Lord saw how hard you were working and called out "Come to me and rest in peace". Love, Auntie Bubbles

Debra Bartz

February 18, 2006

Greg was my son's dearest friend, an unreplaceable one. Greg was an authentic, humble, giving, humerous and loving man. No one could make you laugh like Greg. I will remember Greg with a big smile and a pain in my heart. His passing is a huge loss to all who loved him or were privileged to know him. Stephen, my deepest sympathy. It was so touching to see you two together. Few people experience the kind of love you had for each other.

Ryan with my beautiful cake made with my name in gold-brushed chocolate. Lovingly and deliciously made by Greg.

Amy Lumet

February 17, 2006

Greg is a sweetheart and will always beam at us. I met him through my dear friend Ryan Tasz, and am enclosing a picture of Ry holding the beautiful birthday cake Greg made for me. My sympathy, prayers, and love are with you Steven. Amy Lumet

Lance Reynolds

February 17, 2006

Greg bought a smile and a charm to everyone he met and his spirit and laughter will be sorely missed

Lynn Pahl

February 17, 2006

All the times that we've spent over the years together in Chicago and then the hours talking on the phone are very precious to me. We always had many stories of our childhood and of lately how we are now growing older. I will miss you dearly and all of those new stories and the fascinating people that you've have met in Los Angeles. Keep cooking for the folks in heaven and remember that you will always be in my prayers.

Love always (as you always called me) Cousin Lynnie

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