Melvin Earl Gregorius

DAPHNE Melvin Earl Gregorius , “Greg”, a native of Mackville , WI. and resident of Daphne, Al. died on Monday, June 9, 2014 at his home with his wife by his side. He was born on April 28, 1921 to Lillian F. Gregorius and Michael J. Gregorius. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Vincent and Raymond Gregorius, and his sister Ruth G. Phildius. Melvin’s family moved to Baldwin County in 1935. After graduating from Robertsdale High School in 1940, he joined the Army Air Corps in 1942. He received pilot training and graduated training as a pilot at Ellington Filed, Houston, TX. In 1944. He was assigned to the 31st Bomb squadron, 5th Bomb Group, 13th Air Force at Samar, Philippines as a B-24 bomber co-pilot. His crew flew 19 missions in Borneo and Formosa and one patrol mission to Hong Kong after peace was declared. After returning to the states he spent his working career in civil service at Brookley Air Force Base and Pensacola Naval Air Station. Melvin was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan and Alabama Crimson Tide fan. During his retirement years he was an avid golfer and enjoyed many rounds of golf at Lake Forest Country Club. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lillian “Polly” Gregorius of Daphne; his four children, Marilyn (Michael) Evans of Fairhope, Melvin E. (Patty) Gregorius, Jr. of Destrehan, LA., Nancy (Hobie) Shoquist of Mobile, and Mary (Gerald) McKee of Orange Beach. Melvin was “Grandpa” to eight grandchildren, Melvin Gregorius III, Paul Gregorius, John Gregorius, Daphne Gregorius, Miranda McKee, Ryan McKee, Erin McKee, Amy Evans; three great-grandchildren, Landon Evans, Daynah Harris, Sophia Gregorius, and baby to be McKee; his brother Glyn D. (Mary) Gregorius; many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, June 12, 2014 at Christ the King Catholic Church at 1:00 PM. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the time of service. Interment will be at Memory Gardens of Fairhope. The family wishes to thank Community Hospice and Diversified Health Care for their wonderful support and care. In lieu of flowers donations to the charity of your choice is appreciated. ARRANGEMENTS BY: WOLFE-BAYVIEWFUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY, INC. 27409 U. S. HIGHWAY 98 DAPHNE, AL 36526 (251)625-2900