SPC Michael J. Grella

Michael J. Grella,21, of Ft. Eustis, Virginia formerly of Gloucester passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 9, 2018 Michael was born December 24, 1996 in Brockton. He is the son of Joseph M. and Joanne A. (Verga) Grella of Gloucester. Michael was a resident of Gloucester for most of his life before entering the Military and moving to Ft. Eustis, VA. He was a graduate of Gloucester High School Class of 2016. Michael enlisted in the United State Army after graduating High School and held the rank of Specialist. He shared his kindness and love of adventure with everyone he met. He was always happiest being out doors and being busy. Whether it was fishing, snowboarding, or wandering the woods of West Gloucester, Mike was always getting the most out of life. Growing up he loved Camp Spindrift, and spent every day of every summer there, either as a camper or later as a counselor. One year he represented the Camp and ran and completed the 25k around the Cape road race (one of the youngest ever). Most of all Mike had a dream, he always wanted to join the Army. He set a goal and he achieved it. As soon as he completed high school, he left for Ft. Benning, GA to attend boot camp. As expected, when he completed his training, he said something you rarely hear "I loved boot camp". Being outdoors and always being active was Mike's passion. Mike, had an infectious smile and a hug that made you feel totally loved. He left a positive impression on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. Mike will always be missed by everyone he touched, as his kindness and warmth was felt by many over the years. His boundless energy and compassion was limitless, even in a brief encounter in the aisles of Market Basket or while casting his line at his favorite fishing spots. He will live on in the joy he shared with so many and will never be forgotten. In addition to his loving mother and father Michael is survived by his sister Jessica L. Grella of Gloucester. His grandparents Joseph and Mary Grella of Norwood and James and Rosalie Verga of Gloucester. He is also survived by his loving aunts and uncle David and Kay Ahearn and their son Christopher and his wife Molly of New York City, Marc Verga of Providence, RI, Richard and Tracy Grella of Foxboro, their daughter, Katrina of Manchester, NH and Michael Grella of So. Yarmouthport. He is also survived by many wonderful friends including Fran and Anthony Giacalone and their children Joe and Vincent of Gloucester, and Lilly Kuhns, Dylan Webb, and Callie O'Leary, as well as many great aunts, uncles and cousins. Michael's visiting hours will be at Holy Family Parish in St. Ann's Church, Prospect St. Gloucester on Friday, March 16, 2018 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday morning March 17, 2018 at 9:30 AM in St. Ann's Church. Interment with Military Honors will be in Calvary Cemetery, Gloucester. Donations can be made in Michael's memory to St. Ann Church Restoration Fund 74 Pleasant St. Gloucester, MA 01930 or a charity of your choice.