James La Greca

We discovered that my Brother David had just purchased a home on the same street/block where they lived in NJ. Later, my Nephew, also named David purchased a home formerly owned by their Daughter Susan's friend. Mary Lou and Jim always worked hard at the Italian-American Club of Lakewood Ranch. That is where we had the pleasure of making their acquaintance. We enjoy their friendship so much and have very fond memories of Jim.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

So sorry to hear about James. I wish you all healing and peace.
Dominick J Weinberger

For the record Rich Gillin, my name would have been Harald Bluetooth after the King of Denmark! I would have gone by Mr. BT!

It is hard to know where to begin. The LaGreca family has been so entwined in mine for decades. Jim and I became friends from my wife, Barbara, and Jim's Marilou when they were teachers in Paramus. At that time Jim and I had a special interest in Chaucer, Anglo Saxon and Middle English. Jim wanted to name his first child Bluetooth, but fortunately Marilou had something to say about names. On a hot Friday in September about 1967 we all planned a meal and movie in NYC. Jim suggested Fornos, a Spanish restaurant in mid-town. Barbara had a low capacity for alcohol, and because of the heat she downed a sweet drink with high powered vodka. Barbara, clearly relieved from any sense balance, we decided to walk to the movie theater. On the way we were walking four abreast, and Barbara reached out and grabbed a young passer bye's hand, and held on, in spite of his attempts to free himself. Barbara realized that she could see me, and was mildly shocked to feel the tug of the young man's hand, and a glaring look from his female companion. I could see in her expression that she recognized that something was wrong, "If I can see Rich, who is this?" She let go as the young many excitedly explained to his companion that he had no idea who she was, while she said nobody in New York walks up and holds you hand. I often wondered if that was the end of a romance all due to a strong drink. The LaGreca children are a special breed, funny, wonderfully sarcastic and witty, and always kind and thoughtful. Jim had deep reasons to be proud, and Marilou has a support group that is utterable reliable and good natured. Missing Jim is a gap that cannot be filled, but the memories are vivid and strong.

I remember when the LaGrecas would come to stay with us in Chestertown. I remember waking up as a kid and looking out the window to make sure the "tan van" was still outside. That meant that the LaGrecas were still visiting and I was always so happy to spend time with them. Mr. LaGreca was always the most jovial person ever and there was good time time to be had whenever he was around. The LaGreca family feels like my own family. Love to everyone.

My lovable, funny, newly found cousin. Gone too soon.

Dear Mary Lou (first cousin, once removed) and children Jeff, Susan, Cindy and spouses, plus grandchildren: Sending you my sympathies and my love on the passing of your beloved, Jim La Greca. I am glad I got to visit your home, Mary Lou, briefly in May 2021. (See our photograph.) It was such a nice visit and a nice memory. With love, Annette

We had a blast cooking together - always made me feel good about it! Food definitely was one of the things that connected us - especially good Italian food!

It has been our great pleasure knowing Jim and Mary Lou. We have had some fun times with them and will miss Jim very much. Our condolences to Mary Lou and their family and friends near and far. Cathy and Bill Knobel