Gregory "Greg" Seeley, a beloved husband, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his wife of 54 years, Mary Lynn, and his daughter, Erin.
Greg was born in the small town of Gregory, South Dakota, to Florence (Nash) and Jay Seeley. In his youth, he worked side by side with his father in Seeley Jewelry repairing watches and clocks, engraving jewelry and awards, and working with customers. He developed a curiosity and love for gemology which continued through his life. He graduated from Gregory High School and the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science. Greg’s life was enriched by his marriage to Mary Lynn Drees on June 19, 1970 and later the birth of his cherished daughter, Erin. He then entered the financial field with Whirlpool Acceptance Corporation managing the Sioux Falls office and transferring to Kansas City in 1982.
In 1987, Greg took a leap into entrepreneurship, purchasing Fond Memories Engraving, where he spent the next three decades not just as a business owner but as a community pillar, respected for his creativity, determination to please, sense of humor love of people and the joy he brought to every interaction. Greg's life was a tapestry of warmth, humor, and service.
His commitment to service was evident during his five-year tenure with the South Dakota National Guard, notably during the response efforts to the historic Rapid City Flood of 1972. He had a tremendous love for our country and always made sure there was a flag flying at appropriate times on the dock at the lake.
Greg was a man of many passions. Whether he was hunting, motorcycling, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors, he embraced life with an adventurous spirit. His love for fixing things was matched only by his love for traveling with Mary Lynn, exploring new places and creating fond memories. Greg was never scared to take on new opportunities and did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values and was well liked by everyone, mostly due to his positive energy. Greg had incredible patience and always made time to help others.
Known for his flatcap and a perpetual twinkle in his eye, Greg was synonymous with humor, loyalty, persistence, and good-natured shenanigans, endearing him to all who knew him. Greg will be remembered for his kind heart, gentle spirit and unwavering support for those he loved; who was wholly devoted to his wife, daughter and two grandsons, Easton and Everett.
He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Lynn; his daughter, Erin Gouldthorpe; his adored grandsons, Easton and Everett; and his sisters, Mary Jane Green and Marcia Broome.
Greg was preceded in death by his brother, Tom Seeley; his brothers-in-law, Jack Broome and Harvey Green; and his son-in-law, Eric Gouldthorpe.
A memorial to celebrate Greg's rich, vibrant life will be 11:00 AM, Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, 66215. Visitation will preceed from 10:00-11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Fisher House or the Great Plains SPCA in keeping with his spirit of giving back to the community.
Greg's legacy of laughter, love, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever be etched in our hearts, just as he etched joy into our lives.