Gregory Shea Caron

OBITUARY / TRIBUTE TO GREGORY SHEA CARON

September 16,1947 – January 04,2026

Lieutenant Colonel Gregory "Greg" Caron, a highly decorated United States Air Force veteran, proud Vietnam pilot, accomplished scholar, and beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 4, 2026. He was the son of George Caron and Elizabeth "Liddy" Caron, both of whom preceded him in death. He was one of three children born to George and Liddy. Greg's brother, Brian Caron , preceded him in death. Greg's sister, Peggy Caron, is here with us today, celebrating Greg's life. Greg is survived by his wife, Paulette Caron; his former wife, Sandi Caron Dudonis, mother of his two sons; his sons Jason Caron (Melissa) and Jeff Caron (Danielle); and his two grandsons, Charles Caron and Nathan Caron. Greg was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on September 16, 1947 . Greg attended Nazareth Hall Preparatory Seminary High School, where his discipline and strong character were evident early on. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from St. Thomas University in St. Paul, Minnesota, this was one of his first steps for building a foundation for a lifetime of achievement. Greg also earned his MBA in Business and Finance from Southern Illinois University as well as a Masters of International Trade Logistics from the Air Force Institute of Technology, embodying the same determination and drive in education that he carried throughout his life and career.

In 1969, Greg answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force and entering pilot training. He went on to serve with distinction as a pilot during the Vietnam War, where his courage, bravery, and leadership reflected the very highest ideals of military service. Greg served his country with honor for decades, building a legacy few could ever match. He was an elite C-5 Aircraft Commander and C-141 Aircraft Commander, flying missions that demanded absolute skill, discipline, and strength. He was proud to have been a pilot in the US Air Force, among a fraternity of the very best our nation had to offer. Greg received the Distinguished Flying Cross, personally presented to him by legendary WWII Pilot and Aviator General James " Jimmy" Doolittle , for recognition of Greg's heroism while flying combat missions in Vietnam. In addition he was also awarded the Meritorious Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster , the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters , and the Air Force Commendation Medal -each reflecting a career marked by extraordinary achievement and devotion to duty. In addition to his individual accomplishments in the air, Greg served as an Air Operations Officer at Travis Air Force Base , where he led with pride and purpose. Under his leadership, he and his unit were recognized with some of the Air Force's highest unit honors, including the Air Force Distinguished/Presidential Unit Citation, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award , and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award . Greg often spoke about how deeply he loved leading thousands of airmen and how seriously he took the responsibility of earning their respect, caring for their lives, and mentoring them as they advanced in their careers. He didn't just lead men, he built them into leaders.

And for all of his decorations and extraordinary service, Greg always spoke most proudly of the honors he earned from the men with whom he trained. One such example was at the end of pilot training. Greg and these men were forged together in a crucible - enduring one of the most demanding training programs in the U.S. Military. And at graduation, the pilots voted on whom they thought was the best among them and only one man could be chosen. Greg was that man. They chose him as the top pilot, the top leader, and the wingman they wanted beside them when it mattered most. Through his example, he showed what it meant to be a leader, and those lessons made the men around him better. While Greg's accomplishments were extraordinary, those who loved him know his greatest legacy was personal: he was a great father , a great friend , and a wonderful grandpa . He loved everyone. He had a way of making people feel seen and valued, offering warmth, encouragement, and steadiness that stayed with you long after you left the room. His presence made life better-calmer, stronger, and more meaningful. He made ALL OF US better. Lieutenant Colonel Gregory Shea Caron lived a life defined by courage under pressure, excellence in leadership, and an unwavering love for the people around him-especially his family and his friends. He lived with honor, served with distinction, and loved without limits. His legacy is written not only in the missions he flew and the airmen he led, but in the family he strengthened and the lives he shaped.

If you had the privilege of knowing him, you respected him.

If you were loved by him, you were blessed.

SERVICES

St. Pius X Catholic Church

3303 Urban Crest

San Antonio TX 78209

Mass (1:00 pm)

Visitation (12:00 pm)

Interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full honors.