Albert Gregory

CANTON - Albert Gregory, 93, of 409 N. Third Ave. died at 9:50 a.m. Monday, Nov. 2, 2009, at his residence.

He was born on March 25, 1916, in Tipperary, Iowa, to Vinco Vance and Julia (Jackovich) Gregory, who later settled in St. David, Ill.

He married Betty Jean Ashley on Aug. 31, 1946, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Canton. They celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary prior to her death in 2004.

He also was preceded in death by five brothers and three sisters.

He is survived by his brother, Joe Gregory of St. David; his beloved 14 children, David (Renee) of Canton, Maura (Jim) Neighbors of Louisville, Ky., Melanie (Michael) Jurlando of Prospect, Ky., Dennis (Mary) of Tucson, Ariz., Philip (Brenda) of Canton, Elise (Terry) Puhala of Sahuarita, Ariz., Monica (Char) Conner of Riverview, Fla., John Michael (Sally) of Canton, Anita (Eddie) Clay of Shelbyville, Ky., Buddy (Becky) of Simpsonville, S.C., Matt (Debbie) of Mililani, Hawaii, Andy (Beth) of Tucson, Ariz., Tom of Mishawaka, Ind., and Jym (Dedra) of Indianapolis, Ind.; 29 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Albert was lovingly cared for in his home by his son, John Michael, and daughter-in-law, Sally, after the death of Betty Gregory. Albert's eldest son, David, was also a devoted primary caregiver.

Albert was a World War II Army veteran, serving his country in Europe with the 5th Division. He received five battle stars and a presidential citation. He enlisted in April 1941 and received an honorable discharge with the rank of master sergeant in October 1945.

He worked for Truax Traer Coal and Consol Coal Company in Canton, retiring with 43 years of service.

Albert was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Canton. He was also a member of Canton's Community Concert Association and once served as their president.

Albert was an accomplished pianist who delighted in entertaining others with his musical skills. In his youth, he played in a Croatian string band with his father and several of his brothers.

He also enjoyed gardening, woodworking and spending time with his family. He will be lovingly remembered for his work ethic and good humor.

Fr. Daniel Ebker will officiate a private graveside service. There will be no visitation. A memorial Mass will be held at a later date. Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton is in charge of arrangements.

A private celebration of Albert's life will be held at his home at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Graham Hospital Hospice in Canton.

Online condolences are available at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.