Gregory P. DeDonno's Obituary
Gregory P. DeDonno, 70, a Cape Coral, FL resident since 2012, formerly of Oceanside, CA passed away from complications of liver cancer at 7:58 am on Monday morning, September 23, 2019 in Cape Coral, FL. He was born December 10, 1948 in Cleveland, OH to Palmer and Marie DeDonno, now deceased.Big Greg, as everyone called him, was a United States Marine Corps. Veteran. Greg was a successful salesman his entire life. In California and Ohio, he sold new and certified pre-owned cars, trucks and home improvement projects. Recently, he was a top sales representative at Legacy Education Alliance Inc. in Cape Coral. When asked to share how he was successful, he wrote, “I’ll never sell ice to an Eskimo, I’ll only sell to someone what they really need.”Greg loved playing pool at home with friends and relatives. His favorite pool partner was Vernell, his wife. In Cape Coral, he rode his bike to work and around the neighborhood. Following Cleveland sports was a favorite hobby, including the Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Cavaliers. He was immensely excited when the Cavaliers won the 2016 NBA championship for the first time in their 46 year history.One of Greg’s greatest characteristics was his desire to highlight the successes of others, over his own success. You would also seldom hear Greg speak negatively of anyone. Greg was a devoted grandfather to his grandchildren. During his visits, Greg would encourage and support them as well as his children. Family was really important to Greg. He stayed in touch with family by calling and visiting on a regular basis as well as with friends who lived far away. To know Greg was to love and admire him.Big Greg was preceded in death by his oldest grandson, Michael Alexander.Big Greg is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Vernell DeDonno of Cape Coral, FL; five children, Bernard, Pamela Brown (son-in-law William), Regina (son-in-law TY), Gregory, Jr., Tina; two brothers, Tom and Michael; one sister, Laura McManamon (Paul); six grandchildren, Shakara, Deangelo, Antonio, Tracie, Selena and Cameron; ten great grandchildren; two nieces, Joan and Deborah; two nephews, Steven and David; as well as many extended family members and friends.A Homegoing Service will be celebrated 2:00 PM, Saturday, September 28, 2019 at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 1:00 PM until the service time at the funeral home.Arrangements for final care have been entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33907, (239) 936-0555. To Dad…To be heard, without saying a word,To be hugged when I’m feeling blue,To be understood, when I’m confused,So rare was a Dad like you.Your loving smile, and gentle laugh,Made all the difference in my day.Your endless wisdom, and timeless adviceAlways helped me find my way.In you there was no equal,You were in a class all your own.And because of all the love you gave me,I’ll never be alone.It’s an honor to have known you,To have shared stories and dreams.I’ll always think of you smiling,No matter how tough life seems.You’re still special beyond compare,Your heart so kind and true,I wish everyone on earth,Could have a Dad like you! . . .
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