Gregory Joseph Barlow

Gregory Joseph Barlow of Eagle, MI, aged 72, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on November 14, 1952, to Giles ("Bud") J. Barlow and Carol (Penberthy) Barlow in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Greg touched the lives of all who knew him.
Greg began learning mechanics at a young age, working alongside his father at Duke Shell in Lansing. He then joined the U.S. Army, where he proudly served his country. After his time in the military, he returned to mechanics before finding a new call in caring for others. He became a hospice nurse, dedicating himself to providing comfort, care, and compassion to those in their final stages of life.
Greg was a man who never met a stranger, thanks to his love of talking and telling stories to anyone who would listen. He was wise beyond his years, often sharing random bits of information that always seemed to matter most to those around him. In addition to being a loving father and grandfather, Greg was a father figure to many of his friends. His caring, advice, and guidance extended to all who sought it. His love was wholehearted and unconditional, and his support made him a source of strength and comfort to so many.
Greg had a deep love of cooking and hosting people, which led him to host multiple friends for his well-known Rock and Roll Saturday Nights. He loved to create an atmosphere filled with great food, good company, and of course, the best music. A lover of all genres, he always had a song for every moment, and his gatherings were filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable tunes.
He enjoyed his time Trial Racing and had a lifelong passion for motorcycles. Greg enjoyed the thrill of the ride, often sharing his enthusiasm for both with those around him. His love for motorcycles was an extension of his free-spirited personality, and it brought him much joy.
Greg had many hobbies. These included bowling, fishing, car rides, and unmatched enthusiasm for sports. Whether it was the competition of a bowling league, the peacefulness of a fishing trip, or the competitiveness of an MSU game – He found enjoyment in these activities, often sharing those experiences with family and friends.
One of Greg's favorite pastimes was finding hidden gem, hole-in-the-wall restaurants to try. He loved discovering new places with delicious food and sharing those finds with others. Greg enjoyed telling people about these local treasures, always eager to pass on his latest dining discovery.
Greg was often found attending any event that his grandchildren participated in, cheering them on in whatever they were doing. His love and support for them were unwavering, and he treasured every opportunity to be present in their lives. Greg found true tranquility and peace in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It was there, surrounded by nature and the serenity of the land, that he felt most at home. He cherished his time in the U.P., and just a couple of weeks ago, he took one last trip there, overjoyed by the beauty and calm it provided.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Brenna (Dewey) Watkins of Ionia and Jennifer (Mike) Stephens of Newaygo; son-in-law Guy Read; his cherished sisters, Jeanne Barlow, Patty Gneiting, and Wendy (Bill) Elliot; his significant other, Phyllis Roland; and Phyllis's daughter Felicia and granddaughter Kennedy. He was a proud grandfather to Dane, Abby, Jordan, Sam, Ashton, Mylee, Kaelyn, and PJ, and he deeply valued the love and joy brought by his many nieces and nephews.
Greg was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Jeffery Barlow, Daniel Barlow, and Giles Barlow; his sister, Mary Barlow; his brothers-in-law, Denny Greenho and Paul Gneiting; and the mother of his children, Dee Reeder.
A man of quiet strength and lively conversation, Greg found happiness in the simple joys of life, from time spent with family to sharing stories over a cup of coffee. His legacy is one of love, compassion, and a life well lived.
A celebration of Greg's life will take place on Friday, December 6th, at the Lake Funeral Home in Ionia from 11am to 12:30pm. Memorial service to follow with Mr. Ryan Green officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family or to a hospice organization of your choosing. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com
Gregory Joseph Barlow's love, humor, and fascinating storytelling will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit will remain a guiding light for his family and friends. Congrats if you made it this far-this obituary might be long, but then again, Greg never did know how to tell a short story.