Obituary of Gregory Child

On Monday January 22nd, Gregory Franklin (Greg) Child, a long-time resident of St. Mary’s, passed away at age 70.  Greg, the son of the late Merriel Johnston and Robert Child of Chatham is survived and greatly missed by his brother Tim and by his sister-in-law Paula, whose own family became an extended “second” family that warmly welcomed him into their lives.  

Greg’s cousins, Joan, Sheila, Marg, JoAnne and Harold were also a very important part of his life and he greatly valued his connection to them.  Second cousins John and Steve of Gananoque kept Greg connected to the younger generation as well.

Greg is being remembered by family and friends for his very gentle, kind and giving nature.  His “live and let live” philosophy carried him throughout his life.  Raised in Chatham in his teen years and a McGregor grad, Greg went on to King’s College at Western where his degree took him to the South West Regional Centre at Cedar Springs and then to the St. Mary’s Association for Community Living for 30 years.

If Greg wasn’t behind the wheel and touring the countryside around St. Mary’s, he could be found at his favourite restaurant, the Sunset Diner where Dave and his staff did a fine job of keeping Greg fed and entertained.

While Greg supported many charitable causes throughout his life, he would have suggested that you support those organizations that mean the most to you if you are so inclined.

Finally, all we can say at this point for our brother and friend is Rest in Peace, Greg - Rest in Peace.

In keeping with Greg's wishes, there will be a Private Family Service at a later date and cremation has taken place. 

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. 

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street

Chatham, Ontario

519 351 2040