Gregory M. Rumfelt

RUMFELT WINSTON-SALEM Gregory M. Rumfelt Sept. 2, 1963 - March 25, 2012 Mr. Gregory M. Rumfelt, 48, of Winston-Salem, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 25, 2012 at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home surrounded by his loving family and friends. His death was a result of glioblastoma, a brain tumor. He bravely fought a courageous battle during his long journey of 16 months. Gregory was born in Asheville, NC on September 2, 1963 to Lynda R. Rumfelt and the late R. Bennie Rumfelt. The family moved to Davidson County in June 1966. Greg was educated in the Davidson County school system exceeding in football at North Davidson Junior and Senior High Schools. He graduated from North Davidson High School in 1981. Though Greg's ambition was to attend a university and play football, his aspirations were never accomplished due to a severe closed head injury on July 25, 1981, as a result of a car accident. Although comatose for several weeks and hospitalized for seven months, Greg never once gave up his goal to become independent again. He attended numerous rehabilitation centers, and struggled daily for hours in physical, occupational and speech therapies. Family love for him and support gave Greg the determination to persevere. He continued to work daily on an exercise and strengthening program as long as his health permitted. Greg reached his goal of independence in 1997, moving into his condo in Winston-Salem. He not only lived independently but he worked at Wake Forest University in Reynold Hall for ARAMARK Food Services for thirteen years. Greg required an electric scooter for transportation to work. He boarded the bus across from his condo to the transportation center downtown where he transferred to a second bus to take him to Wake Forest University. Greg encountered many obstacles during these trips, therefore he became a strong advocate for people with special needs. Many professionals in the rehabilitation and vocational field assisted him to educate the public. As a result, he served on the Mayors Advocacy Committee of the Disabled. Greg will be remembered for his love of nature, his sense of humor and his infectious smile. He was an avid sports fan, especially football, golf and baseball. Surviving are his mother, Lynda Rader Rumfelt of Clemmons; two sisters, Deborah Buchalter and husband Jeff of Pensacola, Fl and Elizabeth Alberding of Durham; one brother, Jeffery Rumfelt of Clemmons; his special loving family companion, Max; special friends, David Shields of Clemmons, and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Eller of Winston-Salem; and his loving nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 28 at Ardmore Baptist Church with the Rev. Christa Warise officiating. The family will receive friends at the church following the service. Memorials may be made to Ardmore Baptist Church, 501 Miller St., Winston-Salem, NC 27103 or Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103. The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Kinsley and special caregivers of Hospice, especially Judy Rumple, neighbor and friend, and Tina Gladden. Lynda would like to extend her heartfelt appreciation to everyone during the past few months for their love, support and compassion. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com.