Gregory Scott Gossage, 69, of Barnhart, Missouri passed away on July 7, 2023 after a long fight with cancer.
Greg was born on June 18, 1954 in St. Louis to Patsy and Walter. Greg spent most of his life bouncing around various neighborhoods in St. Louis. After his graduation from high school, He worked several jobs before landing with Peabody Energy in Information Security, where he worked for nearly 30 years.
Greg was an active member in his community, volunteering with Lions Clubs International, where he was a two-time recipient of the Melvin Jones Award, the highest form of recognition the club gives to acknowledge an individual’s dedication to humanitarian service. He was a constant figure at the club’s monthly barbecues and the yearly Fourth of July festival. Greg was one of the few Lions trusted to man the “sirloin grill.” He was a strong believer of giving back to his community and strove to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.
In addition to his volunteer work, Greg was an avid fisherman and baseball fan. He was a big fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and went to as many games as he was able. Greg shared his passion for baseball with his family, who all joined him in Cardinals fandom. He would fondly remember the games from Bob Gibson, his favorite player, and other Cardinal greats such as Willie McGee and Ozzie Smith.
Greg also loved fishing with his friends. They formed a fishing group, the “Bass Turds” and would make frequent trips to the lake. The stories from these trips (fictional or not) became standards at all friendly gatherings.
Some of his happiest moments were spent on the water. Whether it be fishing with his friends, “dolphin rides” with his children, or taking boat rides with his grandchildren, Greg loved creating lasting memories with his family and friends.
Greg’s most proud accomplishment in life was the time he spent with his family. He and his wife, Vicki, were happily married for 41 years and spent the later years of his life traveling the world and strove to visit all the national parks in the United States. Greg was especially proud of his children: Jake and Lindsey, who both graduated from Webster University, an accomplishment that he was incredibly proud of. Of all the titles earned in his life, Greg’s favorite was “paw paw” to his grandchildren Ashley, Andrew, Jolynn, Westley, and Charlotte. He loved every moment spent with his family.
He was strong-willed, and willing to fight for what was right. Greg also was caring and had a great sense of humor. He was clever, loyal, and generous. He lived through a lot of life experiences and was willing to share his lessons with all. Greg was full of life lessons that became a frequent source of entertainment to his family, including “people who are good at excuses are rarely good at anything else.” He also loved to flaunt his “psychic” abilities with friends and family, frequently “swami-ing” during card or trivia games.
Greg was an inspiration to many, an enemy to none, and a beacon of light to everyone he met. He was selfless and caring, known to lend a helping hand to any who needed it. Greg was a great man and his legacy will last for years to come.
He was a devoted husband to his wife Vicki; a beloved father to Jacob (wife Cristina) and Lindsey (husband Johnny); and a cherished grandfather to Ashley, Andrew, Jolynn, Westley, and Charlotte.
Greg was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Douglas. He is survived by his siblings Steve, Sharon, Robin, and David.
Visitation will be held on July 22 from 12-2 p.m. at Kutis Funeral Home (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd
Saint Louis, MO 63129). Services to follow visitation. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Lions Clubs International.
Vicki, I am so very sorry to hear the loss of Greg. Reading about him, he seemed like a wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and man.
You and your family are in our hearts and prayers.
Vicki and family, our deepest condolences at the passing of Greg. He was always good for a wave as neighbors drove by, We would be happy to do anything to help in this time of need. Simply let us know. Fran
Vicki… So sorry to hear this. What a beautiful life you two created together. I know you’ll keep his memory alive. His love is still there for you. You’ll feel it with every remembrance of all you did together, with every meal you enjoyed together, every place you visit that you visited together. Don’t be afraid of those moments. Embrace them and feel his love.
Vicky and family, we extend our most heartfelt sympathies to you all. We have missed seeing Greg out working in the yard and had no idea of his illness. We pray that God would continue to be your Comfort and Strength. We are just around the corner should you need anything.
Vicki and family,
We are so sorry to hear if the passing of Greg. Please accept our condolences.
Linda and Bob Schreprl
All that is said about Greg is true.
He was a great coworker and friend. He reached out to everyone without exception.
He was passionate about his work, but always wanted to do the right thing.
It is honor to know him.
Dear Vicki,
On behalf of Peabody and myself, we are deeply saddened by this news. Greg was always a wonderful colleague and friend to all who knew him…his leadership and commitment to customer service for our mines was extraordinary because he truly cared about always doing the right thing. Also, Greg’ was a special person, he always found time to help anyone…as his expertise/advise was often sought after by many. within IT. We send our condolences, thoughts and prayers during this difficult time to you and your family. He will be sorely missed and god bless.