Edward Gregoire Obituary

Gregoire Sr., Edward J. AKA "Coach", Chatham resident, passed away August 1, 2010, born May 14, 1925 to the union of Louise and Oliver Gregoire Sr. in Chicago, IL. His parents, twin sisters, Aleda (Teenie) and Emelda (Patsy) Hilbring, along with son Rene' Gregoire preceded him in death. The retired Chicago Park District Supervisor of Higgins and Robichaux Park, initiated several programs for "Square Dancing" before completing 34 years of service. His commitment and mentoring of youths over the years is how he got the nickname "Coach". Eddie also worked for many years with the United States Post Office as a Mailhandler. A Veteran of World War Two, Eddie enlisted in the United States Navy and served for three years. A former Semi-Pro Football player with the Elmhurst Travelers, Eddie was once considered as one of the top wide receivers in Chicago; along with his longtime friend, the late/ great Buddy Young. Eddie's strong devotion to family was embedded in him as he persistently cared for the "Love of His Life" Delores daily; as she continues to battle health issues, Eddie is survived by his brother, Oliver Gregoire Jr., sister, Helen (Ferrell) Daste, children, Edward (Greg) Gregoire Jr,, Aleda Gregoire, Paul S. Gregoire, and Jocelyn (Steve) Gregoire-Watkins, 10 grandchildren, Paul Gregoire, Tanya (Lyn) Fields, John (Shawn) Gregoire, Rene'(Javon) Gregoire, Zachary Watkins, Christopher Gregoire, Jessica Watkins, Alexandria Gregoire, Simone Watkins, and Maya Gregoire, six great-grandchildren, Isaiah Nance, John Gregoire Jr., Elijah Fields, Rene' Gregoire III, Sydni Walker, Justyn Gregoire, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Services Friday, August 6, 2010 at A.A. Rayner & Sons, 318 E. 71 St. Chicago, IL, wake 9:00 a.m. Funeral 11:00 a.m. Visitation Thursday August 5, 2010 3:00 p.m. til 9:00 p.m. Interment Lincoln Cemetery, 12300 S. Kedzie Ave. Alsip, IL.