Gregory John Gero, 76, passed away on September 6, 2026, surrounded by his family and their love.Greg was born on September 10, 1949, in Malone, New York. He graduated from McNeese State University and spent much of his career working in the oil industry. He also served his country in Vietnam, where he was awarded two Purple Hearts and received the Bronze Star. He was a member of the Catholic Church and participated in the Knights of Columbus.
More than anything, Greg will be remembered for the way he lived his life and loved his family. He was charismatic, outgoing, and could make just about any gathering more fun. He loved people, was an excellent chef, and especially loved bringing the two together. He was famous within the family for “Papa’s favorite waffles,” a special favorite of his grandchildren.
Family was at the center of his life. He loved traveling with Linda, his wife of 54 years, and especially treasured their annual family beach trips—a tradition that grew along with their family. He loved camping with his grandchildren, fishing with his grandkids, and golfing with his son, Darren. He was a devoted Papa who loved being present for his grandchildren’s lives. Football, basketball, and baseball games and cross-country meets filled his calendar over the years, and he loved being there to cheer the grandkids on.
Greg is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Linda Gero; his son, Darren Gero, and his wife, April, and their children, Kylie, Kaleb, and Kolten Gero; his daughter, Nicci Bengtson, and her husband, Ryan, and their blended family, Ethan, Abby, and Max Johnson and Holly and Addie Bengtson; and his siblings, Debbie Volpe, Susan Bond, John Gero, Mark Gero, and Pam Rebman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Claire Gero, and his siblings, Steve Gero and Laura Vasquez.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Greg’s life on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Valhalla Funeral Home & Memory Gardens, 698 Winchester Road NE, Huntsville, Alabama 35811. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens, with a reception afterward for family and friends to gather, share stories, and celebrate Greg’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Greg’s memory to make a contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association, helping support families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and advance the search for better treatments and a cure. Donations can be made at this link: https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/ryanbengtson/in-loving-memory-of-greg-gero
His family will remember Greg as he truly was: a loving husband, father, and Papa; a wonderful cook; and a man who loved and protected his family fiercely.
He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring laughter, comfort, and stories for years to come.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
