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​

Gregory Paul Vincent

7/26/2022

48 Comments

 
Picture
 January 16, 1935 to July 26, 2022
 
A Man Who Marched To The Beat Of His Own Drum!  
 
Born and raised in Toronto, The Beach, son of Harry and Isabel (Poucher) Vincent. 
He will be remembered by his younger brother Michael (Youn) and his nephew Thomas.
Previous wife Roberta Vincent and their daughter Barbara Williot (Pierre), his grandsons Paul and Rémi and two step granddaughters.
Wife Jeanette (Farwell) Vincent, her three children and two grandchildren.
Extended family, many friends and acquaintances.
 
Gregory Vincent’s Legacy 
 
When World War II came, Gregory’s father joined the RCAF and left when Gregory was six years old in 1941 and returned four years later in 1945. He had all the adventures the Toronto Beach could offer and the city was his playground.
 
Gregory was destined to be on the move. At an early age he went to Camp Pinecrest in Torrance, ON. He loved to paddle, swim and be outdoors. He always had a part time job at a young age delivering newspapers, selling Christmas trees, helping the iceman and the local Loblaws grocery store where they nicknamed him "Snap, Crackle, Pop." 
At age 15 he and a friend traveled by hitchhiking to New York City and slept under the George Washington Bridge in their jungle hammocks and at age 16 hitchhiking to Los Angeles, California, to visit Muscle Beach and the Grand Canyon.
 
When Gregory was 17 years old he joined the RCAF as an aircraft technician. The next year he drove his mother to the hospital and his brother was born, but he never lived a day with his brother. He left for London, Ontario, where he started his career in the regular Air Force as a RCAF Navigator, aircraft interception and from then to 423 Squadron in Montreal.  When the opportunity came to attend school in Florida that started him traveling to RCAF Parent, Quebec, Edgar Ontario, where he met and married his first wife. They were then sent to Quebec where Gregory completed his short service commission. After leaving the RCAF he joined the Royal Canadian Artillery (RCA) Reserve - Gunner. He worked for one year as a civilian, then applied to Transport Canada for an Air Traffic Control position and stood 2nd in his class and was sent to Ottawa, then Toronto Tower, Toronto Center and Toronto approach control. During this time he completed a degree in Psychology at York University. At the age of 35 he became Chief Air Traffic Controller at Buttonville Airport and Oshawa Tower. He was involved in the selection and hiring of Air Traffic  Controllers and subsequently, close to his retirement, he became Chief Air Traffic Controller at Waterloo-Wellington Airport. At the age of 55 he retired. He continued part-time for a few more years in the selection and hiring of Air Traffic Controllers.
 
By that time Gregory had been leading hikes for the Toronto Bruce Trail Club and the Grand Valley Trails. He went out on his first hike with the Toronto Bruce Trail Club at the age of 40 and he said to himself “This is what I am going to do for the rest of my life." Shortly after he became a certified Hike Leader for the Toronto Bruce Trail and led hikes for over forty years and retired from hike leading in 2020. For over forty years he introduced many people of all ages to hiking and instilled the LOVE of nature, the outdoors in those who chose to accompany him. 
 
Earlier days of hiking were backpacking adventures with friends to the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York, Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia, White Mountains in New Hampshire and the STS Susquehannock Trail System, Pennsylvania, Potter County, Great Smoky Mountains along the border of Tennessee- North Carolinas, La Cloche Mountains in Northern Ontario are just a few.
 
Gregory frequented the Susquehannock Lodge in Potter County, Pennsylvania for over forty years. He began backpacking and hiking with family and friends. For over two decades he led hikes five times a year. This was his home away from home.
 
As a Hike Leader Gregory led three End to Ends of the Bruce Trail in 1996, 1998 and the year 2000, an End to End of the Grand Valley Trail in 1997 and an End to End of the Avon Trail in 2001. He also planned the millennium GVTA End to End and organized hike leaders to lead the series of hikes. Gregory was a Hike Leader of day hikes and weekends away for over forty years. He will be remembered as an ambassador for hiking.
 
His Magic Carpet was air flight which started when he joined the RCAF. Travel took him to Barbados, Cuba, Italy/Sicily, France,  Germany, Greece, New Zealand, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. His cycling trips to Cuba he always had a bike and boots to leave with a family and gave a young guide his binoculars. They were so appreciative.
 
He frequently went to the United Kingdom and Ireland and hiked with Holiday Fellowship (HF) on their many trails in his earlier years. In the past two decades he decided to partner with a Travel Agency and with his “Man in Ireland'' they created walking holidays for small groups of people to Hadrian’s Wall between England and Scotland, Pembrokeshire coastal path in Wales, walked across England and Scotland, Cotswolds, Northern Ireland walk to the Giant’s Causeway and various walks in the Republic of Ireland.
Once again he branched out his walking holidays to Azores, Belize, Bermuda, Cuba,  on the El Camino in Spain, the French Way, the Portuguese Way and Malta. 
He often said, “If you want Friends, be Friendly”. Wherever he went he made friends and would frequently visit “you” throughout his life. (You know who you are). He met a man on the El Camino in Spain from Rio De Janeiro in Brazil and visited him yearly for seven years until 2020 where he celebrated his 85th Birthday, with a Grand Finale at Iguazu Falls, the largest waterfall in the world.
 
As a teacher he had a great ability to make people feel confident with themselves. He presented himself with such enthusiasm, allowing others to feel confident with the material he was presenting. Gregory inspired many people of all ages to pursue a life of walking in the outdoors.
 
He taught:
The Department Head of Health and Physical Education at St. Paul CSS in Mississauga decided to implement Hiking into the curriculum at their school and from 1998 to 2013 Gregory led over 1000 students on the Bruce Trail and immediately inspired them. His love of life and hiking left a mark on them that would connect them to the Bruce Trail, forever. A former student became a PHE teacher with Father John Redmand CSS and reconnected with Gregory and for ten more years has led student hikes and the cycle continues.
 
By presenting New Hiker’s Evenings at the Waterloo Brewery and libraries.
 
Hike Leader Training for the Toronto Bruce Trail Club and helped develop the curriculum.
 
Health and Wellness Course, Hiking Ontario Trails for the Waterloo Region School Board and developed the curriculum. Over 500  adults took this course within the  Region of Waterloo.
 
Map and Compass Courses and developed the curriculum.
 
Sun Life Financial Wellness Hikes.
 
CBC interview of walking End to End of Bruce Trail.
 
KW Magazine (CKWR FM) 98.5 had regular seasonal short segments talking about hiking.   For almost two decades to the present Gregory led the hikes for Langdon Hall Country  Hotel and Spa.
 
Gregory was the author of The Right Stuff - Hiking Safety and Tips published in club newsletter across Ontario. He also contributed many articles and visual presentations on various outdoor topics for hiking clubs and libraries. 
 
He was a Lifelong Learner throughout his adult life, learning about flora and fauna, geology, Spanish, English  and creative writing. He was a regular participant of the Canadian Military History Colloquium  at Wilfrid Laurier and other Military History events. An avid reader, Gregory was inspired by the writings of Henry David Thoreau. 
 
Proud member of the Royal Canadian Military Institute (RCMI), Royal Canadian Air Force Association (RCAFA) “per ardua ad astra”, Toronto Artillery Association - 7th Toronto Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery (RCA), Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) - Toronto Bruce Trail Club, Grand Valley Trails Association (GVTA).
 
In his role of being a father to his daughter which he took seriously, he pointed out the best approach to life. His desire for his daughter to be independent ranged from sleep-away camps every summer (starting at the age 6!) to teach her how to change the oil in their cars. Gregory had a commanding personality; he got things done and he was a leader.
Trips each summer to PEI and March breaks to Sanibel Island, Florida were regular family holidays. Wonderful family memories and experiences throughout her childhood years in which Gregory helped to instill the outdoors, hiking and running. Exercise and good nutrition was always a priority to him. He felt that his previous wife was a  caring mother to their daughter. Like her father who ran in the National Capital Marathon in Ottawa, she ran in the Manitoba Marathon. Gregory enjoyed trips in his family Volkswagen camper and trips across Canada and parts of the USA, always visiting a friend or relatives. Gregory was especially proud of his daughter’s accomplishment of becoming an RN and for her two sons, his grandsons who have followed in her footsteps. 

Greg walked his path with steadfastness, always true to his passions, beliefs and convictions in both his words and actions, regardless of how others may have perceived him. It was important to him to be true to his nature of directness, clarity and purpose, just the way he saw fit, even while being aware how others might see things differently. He lived a life of purpose with dignity and passion.
​
Happy Hour was one of Gregory's favourite social times and he often would say “thank you for marrying an older man". As always in life, Gregory knew what he wanted and made our rewarding relationship happen. In the light of these new eyes, he could share his life with me and what was important to him with someone new. He loved, he was loved by me and loved by so many. Of late when roles changed for him, he happily made the transition to accept me as his  full time care partner who kept him on the move to places he enjoyed. We traveled short and long distances. We continued to walk together. We enjoyed theatre, museums, live music and more, always seeing family, friends and continuing to make new friendships.

Gregory’s end of life journey with Alzheimer’s the past two years took him walking in many local and out of town cemeteries. It was easier walking, meditative and he very much enjoyed reading the scripts on the monuments. In particular Gregory was always drawn to the Canadian War monuments of men and women who lost their lives in War and sacrificed their lives for our freedom. He had the deepest and highest regard for military loss as two best friends died in the RCAF and also for all friends and family especially those who passed away at an early age.
 
After having said all this, it is remarkable that this only reflects a snapshot of his life.
 
GREGORY PAUL VINCENT - He lived a full life with No Regrets
This is his song by Frank Sinatra - I Did It My Way  https://youtu.be/qQzdAsjWGPg
 
A Huge Heart, A Huge Smile, Huge Enthusiasm and Cheeky Lively Humor
 
Cremation has taken place. A private Interment will take place at a later date.
Donations may be made to the Bruce Trail Conservancy brucetrail.org Grand Valley Trails Association gvta.on.ca/DONATE.htm Alzheimer’s Society https://alzheimer.ca/ww/en  or your personal preference.
 
Family, Friends and Acquaintances in keeping with Gregory’s favourite social time, we will reminisce, laugh and spend time in good cheer.
You are invited to a Hike and "Happy Hour” Monday, August 8, 2022 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Walk: 4 - 5 p.m.  Happy Hour: 5 - 7 p.m. Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments (wine will be served for a toast). Cash bar available.
At 6 p.m. we will raise our glass to Gregory Paul Vincent.
For those who cannot attend, wherever you may be, join us in raising your glass at 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time to Gregory and cherish the memories you have.
 
Location: University of Guelph Arboretum, College Ave. East, Guelph On N1G 2W1
arbor@uoguelph.ca  43°32’39.06”N, 80°12’57.78”W

Messages and condolences may be left at www.tricitycremations.com. Please visit Gregory's obituary notice on Facebook.
48 Comments
John Hopfner
7/27/2022 04:51:50 pm

I am so very sorry to know that Greg has passed away! I’ve known him for more than 15 years, having met him on a hike (naturally!), and having later joined him and Jeanette for several of his annual summer hikes to destinations in the United Kingdom and elsewhere in Europe. Greg definitely enjoyed hiking and being outdoors, but he also was a dab hand as a trip planner and organizer. He was a sociable man, a fine conversationalist, and was one of those people who never seem to age from one year to the next. I realize this was an illusion, and he did grow older as the years passed, but he never seemed to lose his enthusiasm for living, or his interest in seeing what might lie ahead along that next trail over there.

I will miss Greg, but I’m glad I had the chance to know him, and call him a friend. RIP.

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Helene LeBlanc
7/27/2022 07:07:39 pm

Oh, Jeanette, we will be a walking nation without its Leader! Hang on, though, that's not entirely true! Greg was such an effective teacher, that those who went through his M&C (map & compass) tutelage, can never, ever, really get lost, can they??!! (well, that is if you passed the course, that is.. :*)) For those like me, I guess, I'll be forever looking for my Hike Leader on the trails ahead.

Will miss you dearly, Greg, but I know you'll be there in every "shag bark hickory" that I see. I look forward to continuing my strolls in life with you, dear Jeanette. He/le\ne. xox :*)

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Robert Wilkie
7/27/2022 08:09:30 pm

Thanks for sending me Greg’s obituary. He sure had a full life. I was always so taken by Greg’s enthusiasm for life and travel. He never seemed to stop. Whenever we were in Cuba on one of the bike trips Greg always led walks to see the flora and fauna and he did it in such a warm and giving way. It was like he was just having a conversation with you where you got to learn about the wonders on nature. He did it so naturally. We’ll both miss you Greg. Robert and Teresa

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Mary Ann Gilhuly
7/27/2022 08:16:20 pm

I always enjoyed my hikes with Greg and sorry I did not attend more.
He taught me a lot about hiking. Many of good memories!! He was a character.

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Barbara Hankins
7/27/2022 08:50:00 pm

So sad to hear of Greg's passing. My heartfelt condolences to Jeannette their families. Greg always had a warm and cheery smile, and he was a gift to our neighbourhood with his charm and enthusiasm for life.

Greg left of legacy of love for the outdoors, physical activity, and our environment for so many people. It will live on for generations to come when we follow his example and keep hiking as long as we are able. Thank you Greg!

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Bob McDonald
7/27/2022 10:00:49 pm

A great friend truly missed. I first met Greg way back when we were Air Traffic Controllers in the 60s. Greg and I both enrolled in night school classes at York University and coincidentally took a number of classes together. It was a great time, not only learning but also socializing. We spent many after class evening s in the York pub and when not there it was down to Yorkville to the coffee houses listening to performers like Sonny Terry & Bobby McGee. We as an air traffic group had the pleasure of visiting the Army Mess on University Ave as Greg's guest. I also enjoyed hearing the many stories that Greg would tell of his many exploits to the Carribean.
A great guy - he is and will be missed.

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Diana I Spitz
7/28/2022 07:18:53 am

A beautiful tribute to a truly unique and special individual Jeanette! How lovely and lovingly you describe Gregs very full life, and his final journey full of your love and care these past few years. RIP Greg. You will be missed.

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John Riley
7/28/2022 08:02:34 am

I first met Greg a quarter of a century ago on a Bruce Trail hike for which he was the leader. Since then I have had numerous hikes with him. Included was a day when we ate soggy lunch sandwiches in the rain, days when we broke trail through heavy snow and fair-weather days. I have enjoyed weekend events that Greg organized including those at Susquehannock, Wildwood, Kimbercote and Tobermory and social events in his home where I had the opportunity to meet some of his many friends. Apart from liking Greg as a friend, what I admired most about him the almost bewildering amount of energy that he had for the organization and execution of his many endeavours. I will miss Greg very much but am warmed by memories of times that we spent together.

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Anna
7/28/2022 08:30:32 am

Dearest Jeanette,
What a beautifully written tribute to Greg’s amazing life! He was such a spark in so many lives, and I laughed to learn that it started at such a young age. We could have called him “Snap, Crackle, and Pop” even in his eighties! He definitely lit up my life in the nearly two decades that I had the honor and pleasure if knowing him. It is our great loss that he is gone now, but boy, our stories and memories of him will never fade. They will probably even become legendary, which I know would please him.
My deepest condolences to you and your family Jeanette!

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Susan Turner
7/28/2022 10:48:05 am

To Jeanette, Greg's family and his many friends,
I was very saddened to hear of Greg's passing. Like the Eveready bunny, he just kept on going, with an energy, generosity and wicked sense of humour that drew me and many other into his orbit. We will all miss him so much.
I first met Greg and Jeanette when a friend and I decided to spend Easter weekend at Susquehannock Lodge in Pennsylvania. Not realizing what the set-up was, we arrived at the lodge minutes before dinner was to be served and were immediately greeted by a stranger holding a Martini glass asking us if we would like one! Things went uphill from there (quite literally as anyone who has hiked the trails in Pennsylvania knows).
Since that time I attended as many hiking weekends as possible and have missed the cameraderie that Greg and Jeanette created during the past couple of "covid" years.
Now, every time I make a Martini I think of those happy times and so admire Greg for his spirit. Cheers, Greg, you will be greatly missed!


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Dan Mallin
7/28/2022 10:56:14 am

Such an accomplished and generous man. My condolences to Jeannette and all his family. I had such a great time with him and his many friends on the Bruce Trail, in Pennsylvania and on the map and compass courses. He was a real leader.

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Dorian Hausman and Christina Kempster
7/28/2022 11:08:38 am

Jeanette, what a wonderful tribute to Greg,

Greg was a very special friend to us. He was kind, positive, helpful and a true leader, We will forever remember our many hikes and happy hours with him.

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Trish Loraine-McCracken
7/28/2022 11:35:17 am

I often think of Greg even though I have not seen him for about 33 years. We hiked the Bruce Trail and the Fort La Cloche area. We were both hike leaders. I have memories after all these decades that have not left my mind. He was always a sweet man and it always a light to see he and Roberta. I'm so glad he had a good long life and I didn't realize he was older than I am.

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Karl Schreyer
7/28/2022 04:25:43 pm

When I was looking for a new focus in my life, Greg inspired me with his love to nature and hiking. He told me about his own excitement when he started hiking as a young man. It was immediately clear to him, that hiking is something he wanted to do for the rest of his life, and he did!
He was so welcoming to everybody who wanted to experience this love for nature, hiking and what he called camaraderie along the trails.
I have enjoyed so many great hikes and weekends of camaraderie what he and Jeanette organized for us. Those memories will stay and I will always be thankful for that.
Greg, - we will miss you.

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glennis and Mark Yantzi link
7/28/2022 04:52:59 pm

We are thinking of you especially during this time Jeannette.

We have gotten used to seeing Greg on his walk in the neighbourhood and we will miss that. Sometimes it involved a long conversation, more recently not so much. He certainly left a notable legacy and it was good having known him.

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YYZ ACC CATCA Branch Executive
7/28/2022 10:15:50 pm

On behalf of all members of the Canadian Air Traffic Control Association in the Toronto Area Control Center, please accept our deepest sympathies and condolences on Greg's passing. His life should serve as an inspiration to all of us to follow our hearts and live our dreams.

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Jamie and Jan Hember
7/29/2022 07:31:12 am

Greg,
Taking your hiking course a few years ago opened a number of volunteer opportunities we needed in retirement. It started out with us hiking and evolved into numerous other roles within the hiking community. Hikes with you and others have provided us with a multitude of rich memories. One is the production of your 80th birthday quilt. Those who know you, know the quilt-patches match some of your journey. We learned so much from you. This past year, it was an honour to be beside you on some of your frequent and numerous daily walks. Thank you and Jeanette for joining us for the last and very recent walk followed by dinner at our apartment. We reminisced and laughed together so much. We miss you but we have the memories!

“Lost love is still love.
It takes a different form, that’s all.
You can’t see their smile
or bring them food
or tousle their hair
or move them around the dance floor.
But when those senses weaken,
another heightens.
Memory.
Memory becomes your partner.
You nurture it, hold it,
and dance with it.

Life has to end, Love doesn’t.”

... from Mitch Albom's book entitled The Five People You Meet in Heaven.

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Kathy Ludanyi
7/29/2022 10:34:15 am

What a fantastic write up, Jeanette! I've loved every minute of hiking and visiting with you and Greg for the last 10 years or so. I saw Greg as a warm, brilliant, funny, generous, and oh SO lively man who touched a heck of a lot of lives. He always made me laugh, and I learned a lot from him.
Some of my favourite memories are being offered a martini the moment I got to Susquehannock, after being asked "do you still take a drink??" Also Greg's offering to do tic checks after hikes - but only for the ladies ;) and showing us his "god-like feet" when telling us about proper hiking footwear. I can hear his voice telling me that my "murphy bed is ready" whenever I was visiting you at home.
I'm so glad he had you by his side, and feel honoured that I could see him in his last days. I will miss Greg dearly.
Sadly I will be overseas on the 8th but my sister (who also loved Greg) and I will definitely toast to him.
Thinking of you - will be in touch. xoxo

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Linda Southall
7/29/2022 10:52:13 am

Dear Jeanette, there are no words I can express at this sad news. My love and condolences to you and all his family. Greg will be missed so much. He touched so many lives in so many positive ways. I will never forget him and his dry sense of humor. What an impact he had for the love of hiking and nature. I learned so much from him. I am so grateful i was able to join you on our pre-covid hiking trip to Iceland and London.

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Richard Brown
7/29/2022 10:58:42 am

Dear Jeanette so sorry for your loss.
I met Greg 20 years ago when we took the same English class at Laurier and we sure had a few laughs during that time. I feel privileged to have known him and to have shared walks and talks in England, Pennsylvania and Tobermory. He was an original, unforgettable and kind. His zest for life, indomitable spirit and his willingness to share his wisdom are what I will remember most. A beautiful tribute. Thinking of you at this most difficult of times. Take good care. Richard

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Genevieve H Plank
7/29/2022 12:55:15 pm

Words cannot express how Greg will be sorely missed.

Having joined him and Jeanette on many a day and weekend hikes, his enthusiasm, warmth, extensive knowledge, respect for nature, resourcefulness, and knockabout stories were shared with no holds barred. Many a hike was capped with a toast that rounded up the day beautifully.

Greg walked to the tune of his own drum and carved out his legacy as a wonderful hike leader, not just on the Bruce Trail, but on other well-known Canadian and world trails. Greg must be well on his way to hikes beyond the worldly trails he once trod.

Jeanette, your loving tribute to Greg is so touching. To you, and the rest of his extended family, our condolences and prayers.

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Hildi Richardson
7/29/2022 04:44:23 pm

My memories of Greg include many lovely hikes (when we were both much younger), the weekend in Sasquahannock, a number of fun and informative rambles around the Toronto Beach District. I;ve always wanted to attend his yearly Tobermory orchid hikes and regret that will now never have the chance. Greg will be greatly missed by many, and to all of you who loved and admired him I extend my deepest sympathy.

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David Royle and Brenda Menezes
7/29/2022 05:57:53 pm

Dear Greg
What can we say to you other than thank you. First of all you were an amazing hike leader. We have been so lucky to have been taken under your wing and guided over the last twenty five years. Anything we have accomplished on our hiking journeys has been the result of your ongoing encouragement and belief in our abilities. We would never have been motivated to visit so many extraordinary places without you, and for that we will never be able to thank you enough, From Princes Hotel, Tobermory to Wildwood Resort, Lake Huron: from Susquehannock, Pennsylvania to Kimbercote Farm, Beaver Valley you hosted weekends at venues that became a home from home.

On a personal note, thank you for being our friend, a confidant and for loving us. We have never met anyone who cares and loves so sincerely as you. You were a surprise in our lives and one we are so happy to have received.

You leave us with so many memories. We will always be connected to you beyond the hiking trails. We were struggling to think of the defining token of our time together. Until we came across Jeanette's invitation to raise a glass in your honour, As soon as we read this, we were immediately reminded of you and the unique skills you deployed as host. You took time to ensure all your guests were welcomed and given the opportunity to experience the "cool, crisp and clean taste of gin and vermouth" as part of happy hour. A time you eagerly sought to bring people together as one happy family. A memory that recalls happiness, joy, it was unpretentious, but left an impression. It also had a bit of wild streak in it - just like you. But most importantly it makes us smile.

We will love you always.

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Eleanor Tasker
7/29/2022 07:28:12 pm

Jeanette

Sorry to hear of Greg's passing. My condolences to you Jeanette and your family. What an amazing individual Greg was - inspired many of us on numerous hiking and cross country skiing trips. "Thanks Greg" for so many wonderful memories. Your joy for life was always present.

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Sunny &Frank Dicum
7/30/2022 03:42:53 pm

So sorry to hear that Gregory has hiked his last hike. He was a great inspiration for many of us. His memory will live on.

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Adrienne Jones
7/30/2022 04:02:50 pm

I am SO sorry Jeanette for the huge loss in your life. Actually I am sad for all of us..as I thought he would live forever and always be the same old energetic Greg who never seemed to change! A great man with an inquisitive and intelligent mind, a great sense of humour, and a very fit man! He was an inspiration to all who met him. I first had the pleasure of meeting Greg at the Susquehannock Lodge in Pennsylvania more than 15 years ago. Since moving to Toronto from BC not that long before that, I was looking for greater hiking opportunities and saw the advertisement in the Bruce Trail newsletter. And of course after that trip I was hooked! I met many fantastic people through Greg, (you will know who you are when I say that) . Enjoyed weekends in Tobermory, Kimbercote Farm, walking day trips here and there, and then of course there was the 7 nights on the APPALACHAN trail, which was an amazing experience. All opportunities that would not have been possible without Greg. I learnt some "interesting" things from Greg along the way! One of his favourite quotes seemed to be "Do not walk on wet wood"! I also was educated on the benefits of quick dry underwear, how to make a martini, and how to wIn at Trivial Pursuit! Amazing times. Jeanette your moving tribute was SO spot on accurate, along with the song "I Did It My WAY". Love it. I will of course be raising a glass to toast Greg on AUG 08 from the Canadian Rockies. May all the good memories live on in our minds of a great person..

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Brenda and Paul Wilson
7/30/2022 04:11:02 pm

Jeanette, I’m so for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

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Joh and Joanne Brock
7/31/2022 01:23:43 pm

Joanne and I first met Greg in September 2016 when we attended Greg’s Labour Day weekend hike at the Susquehannock Lodge in Pennsylvania. We loved hiking but were looking for a more social experience and thought that a weekend stay at a lodge with other hikers might add to the enjoyment.

We were not expecting too much of an experience. However, that really changed when we met Greg. His warm outgoing personality was immediately obvious! Greg kept us laughing the whole weekend as he recounted the many humorous incidents and interesting stories from his life. Wherever Greg went warmth and humour accompanied him. Along with the stories came a wealth of knowledge Greg had accumulated over his many years.

Hiking with Greg was so enjoyable, interesting and thought provoking that we were back with Greg at Susquehannock only a month later for Thanksgiving weekend. Many more weekends at Tobermory and Red Bay followed.

Greg, you will be missed and remembered often.

John and Joanne Brock

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Bob and Marie Knapp
7/31/2022 06:50:23 pm

Marie and I have fond memories of our times in Cuba with Greg. I especially remember when we biked to visit the old train engines that were set up as sort of a museum. We were both fascinated by the engines and cars you could climb on. Greg was a great guy and it was always special to see him and Jeanette in Cuba.

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Darlene Tymn
8/1/2022 07:11:39 pm

In 2004 I had been a spousal caregiver for 15 years already when I signed up for a Sierra Club hike in Pennsylvania, based at Susquehannock Lodge, and led by Greg. Soon after PA, I went with Greg to Ireland for four more weeks of hiking.The experiences were exceptional, and jumpstarted active global travel for me, which was to become much needed respite and renewal as my caregiving continued for another 15 year. Thank you Greg for your leadership and continuing friendship over the years since. Peace and love to Jeanette, who kept the flame burning brightly until it went out.

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Pam King
8/2/2022 11:52:55 am

Dear Jeanette Roberta, Barbara, Michael, Paul, Remi and the rest of the Vincent family. Please accept my sincerest condolences for the loss of our Dear Greg. A man who was fortunate to be Blessed with a long life span to enjoy life to its fullest. I will always remember our good times at the Lodge in Pennsylvania, at the Wildwood Resort May long weekend, The Princess Hotel in Tobermory and the many, many hikes and adventures with Greg. A man who ALWAYS made me felt welcomed at every get together with lots of good stories about his many adventures. I will hold up my glass of wine at 5:00pm next Monday and think of you with great admiration and love. Thank you Greg for the privilege of being called "your friend". May Peace and Tranquility follow you wherever you may be.

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Carol Delahunty
8/2/2022 06:22:14 pm

John and I have many happy memories of our time with him at the Susquehannock Lodge as well as his annual visits with Jeanette to visit us around John's birthday. The trip we did to Sicily with Greg was tremendous fun and he connected so easily and well with our cousin's children despite him not speaking Italian! He will be greatly missed!

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Kae Elgie
8/2/2022 07:32:05 pm

Thank you Jeanette for sharing Greg's amazing and wonderful story with us. I am so glad I got to be one of the RWL folks at your wedding, and also go on a couple of the hikes and walks you and Greg co-led.
You've had quite the journey.
Sincere best wishes and sympathy.

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Franklin Chen link
8/3/2022 12:25:55 am

Thank you, Greg, for being a part of our lives. Abby and I met Greg several years ago when we heard about his hikes and came to the Lodge for vacation. We enjoyed his stories and guided hikes and his attempts to get us all to join him early in the morning for yoga, and we came back a couple more times over the years and met Jeannette also. We will miss his zest for life but will never forget it. Our condolences to Jeannette and all the rest of Greg's family and friends.

Reply
Ewa Rakowski
8/4/2022 08:25:48 am

It is hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember. Greg's continuous enthusiasm, passion for nature and sense of adventure was exemplary to us all. Greg demonstrated how one should truly live their life to the fullest, never taking a day for granted. Greg will be truly missed by many of us that had the opportunity to be in his presence. My sincerest condolences to Jeanette, his beloved wife and his family.

Reply
Queen's Green Gardeners
8/4/2022 09:16:48 am

Jeanette, we are very sorry to hear of your loss. All our love goes out to Jeanette and Greg's family.

Reply
William Ottney
8/4/2022 04:47:38 pm

I first met Greg in March 1998 when, as a never-before hiker, I attended Greg’s Hiking Ontario’s Trails course at WHSS. In large part, it was Greg’s enthusiasm and his gregarious nature that kick-started my love for hiking. Without Greg’s support, it is quite likely that I never would have started hiking in the first place.

When I did not think I could handle a longer hike, it was Greg who provided the encouragement. He knew my capabilities better than I did. It was Greg who gave me the shove to join that first Henry Kim hike on Easter Sunday 2000. Little did I know at the time, that hike was the first of many to come as I worked on my first BT E2E.

But hiking with Greg went far beyond walking a trail. His knowledge of local flora introduced me to plants such as blue cohosh and many more. I learned the social side of hiking and how pleasurable it was to walk with Greg on a hike. Many of the friendships I have made were due to hiking, and in later years the enduring friendships which we made with folks we had met at Susquehannock Lodge.

Greg played a key role in the profoundly positive changes in my life from being a sedentary couch potato to being an avid hiker. I am truly blessed for having known the man. And those aprés hike Martinis always come to mind.

Reply
Jeanette Vincent
8/7/2022 09:08:58 am

Dear Family and Friends

Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories and thoughts about Gregory, here in the comments section of his Tribute, hand written cards, emails, messenger, text messages and in person. To those who have sent their condolences to Gregory’s family; to his first wife Roberta, his daughter Barbara and her family and his brother Michael and his family.

On Friday for the first hour Gregory was at Freeport Palliative Care I am especially thankful for the visit from his daughter Barbara and her son Rémi, his brother Michael and his wife Youn. Also to my family, Gregory’s extended family and the many friends who kept Gregory company for his remaining days. Just what he would want, to be with family and friends.

Early Tuesday morning I had the privilege of being at Gregory’s side when he died at 4:15 a.m. I was fortunate to have just finished holding him close and expressing all the fun, happy times and love we shared together before he took his last breath. The last gift he gave me, one I will treasure forever, along with so many good memories.

Reply
Jeanette Vincent
8/7/2022 09:17:24 am

You are invited (no rsvp necessary)

Promontory Point - Williamsburg Cemetery

Cremation has taken place.
Gregory’s Interment will take place on Saturday, August 20, 2022.

11a.m. to 11:45a.m.
Williamsburg Cemetery 1541 Fischer Hallman Rd, Kitchener, ON N2R 1P6
Parking - Dedication Centre (Chapel)
Promontory Point

A winding bridge runs from the Dedication Centre entrance to Promontory Point. Our upright monument will be to the right, in the front row just a few steps from the bridge.

An attractive natural setting which includes a beautiful pond, wetlands and restored 19th century Mennonite Chapel called the Dedication Centre.

With a shimmering water feature, Promontory Point is the centrepiece of the serene setting at Williamsburg Cemetery. Within the pond are several accent fountains cascading water, creating a pleasing visual effect. The banks are landscaped with plants and armour stone to enhance the area’s natural beauty.

A variety of activities include fishing, bird watching, the meditative labyrinth, walking or hiking the Trillium Trail.

Reply
Jeanette Vincent
8/7/2022 09:57:14 am


Happy Hour- To clarify the location

You are invited to a Hike and "Happy Hour” Monday, August 8, 2022 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Walk: 4 - 5 p.m. Happy Hour: 5 - 7 p.m.

Location: University of Guelph Arboretum, College Ave. East, Guelph On N1G 2W1
arbor@uoguelph.ca 43°32’39.06”N, 80°12’57.78”W

The above address takes you to this location which is called the Auditorium or Arboretum Centre.

From Victoria St. in Guelph you turn onto College Ave E your first left is Arboretum Rd. At that location there is a sign (although it is damaged and hopefully will be fixed). Follow the road until you reach two large parking lots on your left.

You will not see the Arboretum Centre upon arrival because it is built into the side of a hilled landscape. Once you begin walking, the road or nearby trail will lead to it.
Accessible parking and to the inside of the centre is available.

Reply
Betty Kay
8/7/2022 07:53:36 pm

In a Kismet moment we met in Mercedes' crowded freshman WLU classroom.We didn't notice each other until we were the only ones who showed up for an evening Spanish film!
We both attended noon hour concerts where lunch was sold to compensate musicians and served with coffee in pews, like dinner theatre.
Our birthdays were 2 days apart and we went to celebrated local venues like the rebuilt St.Jacobs Stockyards. This year the newly retired Jeanette joined us and picked up special dishes to break the Covid regulations at their place.
My friend Inez recounted bike rides in Cuba and hikes at the Lodge in Pennsylvania. Greg said rain was desirable for testing your boots for leaks. Langdon Hall guests were treated to Greg's and Jeanette's nature walks on their temporary homestead.
Jeanette carefully researched holding Greg's interest and he enjoyed that immensely. They visited Waterloo Mansions and stayed for questions about every detail of historical life in the region. A New Hamburg school librarian for over 25 years, Jeanette uncovered books on local, hidden mysteries.
They saw Hamlet in Stratford and walked as much as Greg liked. I joined them at the Shakespeare Conservation area, at the artificial lake and after walking along the lake and into the woods, Jeanette sat us at a picnic table and out came a cut up apple. She anticipated every need!
After walking in Avalon cemetery in Stratford, we were ready for the Roast Beef Special at the Parlour. Greg enjoyed the non-alcoholic beer and we all agreed the Yorkshire pudding was the best we've had!
They had a running board installed on their SUV so that I could just step up to the back seat and our friendship didn't miss a step!

Reply
Anne Shlarp-McArthur & Stephen McArthur
8/7/2022 09:39:31 pm

Dear Jeanette & Vincent family,
It is so incredibly hard to believe that our precious Greg has passed away. I have been struggling with finding the words to describe this huge void that Greg has left in our hearts. Over twenty years ago, while running a phys ed dept, I was looking for the perfect person to lead hikes for our high school students. I am so grateful that I was given Greg's name and the rest is history. For almost 20 years, Greg lead our 10 km hikes on the Devil's Pulpit section in Caledon and inspired thousands of students to understand the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment and become lifelong hikers. We would pick him up on Old Baseline Road, in our big yellow school bus and the students would be so warm and welcoming when this bigger than life, passionate dynamo boarded the bus. He had such a great sense of humour and loved sharing his knowledge of plants, and rocks with the students. They loved him and always commented that this hike was one of their most favorite activities. Greg's passion for life was palpable and I am so blessed to be able to call him our dear friend. Greg was truly ageless...with a beautiful contagious smile that lit up a room and genuinely connected with everyone he met. Greg touched thousands of students with his love of life and I am so incredibly grateful for that. Many former students now share this love of nature and the outdoors with their families. This is only one of the legacies Greg will leave behind. He made such a difference in the world and our hearts are hurting with this loss. Thank you Gregory, for the love and the passion that you so willingly shared with all of us. Jeanette, you captured Greg so perfectly in your obituary; the memories we shared will be forever etched in our hearts. Rest In Peace, dear friend. Love you forever and always.xo

Reply
Ruth Zimerman
8/8/2022 08:36:42 am

To Jeanette and all of Greg's closest,
I had the great pleasure of spending a New Year's at Susquehannock where I met Greg and Jeanette. They were so very kind and generous and welcomed me as a newcomer into their circle. I had just become a hike leader with the Bruce Trail Conservancy and Greg shared his joys and occasional challenges around organizing events. Over the days with this group, I saw how spirited, funny and generous a man he was. It was a true pleasure to have met him. I'm so sorry for your loss, Jeanette. But I know he left you with great love and affection.

Reply
Andy Kulik and Marilyn Spate
8/8/2022 09:09:59 am

Our sincerest condolences ... Greg was a great hiker, story teller, teacher, leader and of course a wonderful human being ... he will be missed ...

Reply
John Arrigo
8/8/2022 12:08:28 pm

Greg my dear friend. I knew this day would come, as it does for all of us, but even after 25 years it seems too quick. We had many good times at the Lodge, in Bermuda, Canada, Sicily, Pittsburgh, and Ohio. Through you I've met many friends for which I'm very grateful. I'll always remember you and you'll be with me on every hike, travel adventure, and with every martini. Godspeed Greg.

Greg was a wonderful teacher. He taught me many things. Here is one to make you laugh...

I once knew a girl from Madras,
Who had a magnificent ass,
It wasn’t round and pink,
As you might think,
But was grey, had long ears, and ate grass!

Reply
Brian Denman
8/8/2022 06:18:19 pm

Pat and I only met Greg once at Susquehannock lodge when visiting Canada to see my brother Norman Denman who took us to the lodge. We were instantly taken with Greg's welcoming friendlyness, a lovely man. We send our sincere condolences. RIP Greg.
Patrcia and Brian Denman. Rustington England.

Reply
Yudedny Gallo
8/22/2022 03:43:50 pm

If; You came into my life on a Sunday, a Sunday full of magic, with a huge smile that only you could have, a smile that always walks by my side, my friend,
Dear Greg,
How lucky I am to have met you!
How lucky for me, a guide who was beginning her adventures and who felt insecure, but.... you made me want to continue guiding within the Lomas De Banao Ecological Reserve,
Thank you for so many joys
Wherever you passed the birds came out to sing by your side, in a single day we saw more birds than ever, and it was you, you attracted them along the path, you were a wonderful guide, my great friend.... . we will always be together.....
Yudedny from Cuba

Thank you very much dear Jeanette......

Reply
Cheryle Ciulla
8/30/2022 11:44:23 am

I was so saddened to hear about Greg. I could not have imagined him not being here. His passion for life, people, nature was immense and infectious and inspiring. I remember with smiles those wonderful snowshoeing weekends up in Tobermory. He was always interested in people and a good listener. Such a welcoming time that I continued to go back each winter until covid times (the drive up there was always a challenge but I so loved the destination). Of course, now I wish there had been even more but I do feel so blessed, humbled even, that I knew this lovely man who lived life so fully and completely. I am also now fondly looking back on a hike I was doing in Cheltenham several years ago. As we were about to head off a school bus pulled in, a group of high school students started to clamber off followed by this 'middle age' (he never seemed any older to me). Well, I recognized his voice immediately and went over to say hi and give him a hug. He explained to me about his hikes with the kids and getting them interested in hiking. He was always an example and I was always learning more about Greg. God bless you, Greg and always keep you in his grace....and God bless you, Jeanette, you two were always in sync - you gave each other your best and so became your best.

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