Gregory Allison

Sep 1, 2020 | Obituaries, Obituaries 2020 | 5 comments

Gregory M. Allison (75) of Olathe, KS passed on Saturday, August 29, 2020, after many years of illness.

Greg is survived by his wife of 51 years, Maureen; son Geoffrey Allison (Rachel Berbiglia); son Christopher Allison (Latoya); daughter Erinn Tapp (Justin); daughter Cathleen Sprague (Steven); as well as four grandchildren: Zayne and Wyatt Sprague, Juniper Tapp, and Marley Allison. Greg was preceded in death by his parents Nelson W. Allison (Eleanor Lacy) and brother Captain Kent V. Allison. A private family graveside service will be held on St. Gregory’s Feast Day. We anticipate a further “Celebration of Greg’s life” when families are more able to travel safely around the country.

Greg was born in Kansas City, KS, and attended St. Rose of Lima grade school. He graduated from Rockhurst High School in 1962, then attended Donnelly College.

After serving in the US Air Force, Greg graduated from Rockhurst College. Greg lived three years in California where he met his wife Maureen, who was smitten by his great smile and singing voice. Greg’s first child was born in California. After moving back to Kansas in 1972, he and his wife welcomed three more children. In 1981 the family moved from Lenexa to Olathe. Greg worked for Union Pacific Railroad as a Car Inspector, earning commendations for his thorough safety inspections.

Prior to a spinal cord injury that altered his life, Greg enjoyed fishing at Shawnee Mission Lake and traveling within the US and to Europe, especially Russia. He loved all types of music and was an avid reader all his life. His most recent pastimes were watching old classic movies and science shows like NOVA. He reveled in Zoom calls with his family. Although having been a very strong man, Greg never complained about the paralysis and subsequent illnesses that took all his strength away. Instead, he tried to be self-reliant for as long as possible. Greg continued in his Catholic faith while in long-term care at Nottingham Health and Rehabilitation, receiving Sunday communion from Prince of Peace Parish. In his final days, he was cared for by Catholic Community Hospice.

Gregory’s family thanks everyone who touched his life and made it more meaningful and bearable as his body grew too frail to carry on in this world. Gregory Michael Allison; Husband, Father, Grandfather, your smile and quick wit will be sorely missed by your loving family.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, 9720 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212, or to Harvester’s, 3801 Topping Ave, Kansas City, MO 64129. Assistance by Funeral Advocates, LLC.

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Marianne Roper

3 years ago

God Bless Greg and his wonderful family. Greg was one of the few cousins I have that has stayed connected. I always appreciated his humor and willing to help personality. He was special.

Cecilia Vessel

3 years ago

Good bye dearest Gregory, thank you for your humor, kindness and willing spirit. Thank you Maureen for your loving devotion to Greg, you were his touch stone. Blessings to your family.

Anna Bates

3 years ago

Despite the distance separating our families we kept up lively conversations by phone with Greg and he was a delightful raconteur. When Greg and Maureen visited us in California in the mid 90s we were able to spend an enjoyable week together as adults. Fortunately we finally made our trip to Kansas about a year ago and we are so grateful that we did. We reminisced together about our student days in Berkeley when we were all so young. It’s a precious memory.

Patti Schumm

3 years ago

Maureen I just jearned of Gregory’s passing . Please know I am sending my prayers and sympathy for you and your family. You must be so proud of the strength Gregory exhibited during journey.

Lynda McClelland

3 years ago

What a beautiful tribute to Greg. My heart has each and every one of his loved ones in my heart, because I love you all. My condolences for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Hugs and may you have peace, and may Greg soar on.

Kind Words

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MHD

Dad has commented several times since mom's passing how her Celebration of Life was such a nice tribute to her and how grateful he was for that process to be handled so smoothly.

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Marchia

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The Abram Family

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Nicole

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Bill B.

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