Gregory James Berry

Gregory James Berry passed away on August 19, 2023 at his home with his wife and two daughters by his side after a hard-fought 4.5 month battle with glioblastoma. He was 70 years old.

Born August 26, 1952 at the Winslow Clinic on Bainbridge Island to John and Carmen Berry, Greg grew up in Eagle Harbor with his two brothers and other long-time island family friends. A strong work ethic was instilled in him at an early age. He mowed the lawns at The Bainbridge Country Club beginning in middle school and held the job through high school. Greg loved playing football and basketball as a kid and earned varsity letters in both sports. He graduated from Bainbridge High School in 1970 as class salutatorian.

Greg went on to earn his degree from Seattle University in Business Administration with a minor in Economics. Summer breaks were spent fishing up in Alaska to finance college and flying lessons at Boeing Field. He obtained his Private Pilot’s License at age 19. After graduation, he pursued his passion for aviation and joined the Navy where he flew the A-6 Intruder. In 1982, he was hired by Northwest Airlines and was a commercial pilot for 30 years flying primarily Boeing 747s while also serving as a Navy Reservist for 20 years.

Greg was always one to lend a hand and help others out. During time off, he’d help his contractor uncle build houses on Bainbridge Island, including the home he raised his family in and later spent retirement days building his workshop and woodworking. He served as his daughters’ swim club president and also coached basketball. From a family of Croatian fishermen, he enjoyed commercial and recreational fishing his entire life.

Loving husband, dad, grandpa and friend; he cherished his family and lifelong friendships, while also befriending new ones and every dog he met. Greg and Nina Berry were together for 50 years and married for 47. He was an amazing husband and dad, but an even better grandpa. He could carry a serious conversation but was always ready to crack a good dad joke. Above all, he was an intent listener. Known for his calm demeanor, sharp wit, humor and kindness; he was a truly genuine human being with a heart of gold.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents John and Carmen Berry, his brother Ron Berry, his in-laws Felix Sr. and Asuncion Narte. He is survived by his loving wife Nina, daughters Angela (Michael) and Natalie, beloved grandchildren Max, Jolie, Gia and Lucy, brother Tom Berry, eight sister and brother-in-laws, twelve nieces and nephews and extended family.

All are welcome to attend his Memorial Service on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 10:00am (rosary beginning at 9:15am) in St. Cecilia's Catholic Church: 1310 Madison Avenue North, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110, with a Celebration of Life reception at Kiana Lodge: 14976 Sandy Hook Road Northeast, Poulsbo, WA 98370 immediately following the church service.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a contribution to our fundraiser: https://fundraise.gbmresearch.org/gregberry created in his honor to help fund the research to find a cure for glioblastoma and/or K9s For Warriors whose mission is to train shelter dogs as service animals and pair with veterans experiencing military service-connected trauma.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.