<p>Throughout the weekend the Vineyard mourned the loss of the longtime West Tisbury moderator and well-known Islander, who was the victim of a robbery and homicide on a remote hiking trail in northern California Friday. Mr. Gregory was 69.</p>
The Vineyard is mourning the loss of F. Patrick Gregory, the longtime West Tisbury town moderator and Vineyard Haven businessman who was found dead on a remote hiking trail in northern California Friday.
The Tehama County Sheriff’s department confirmed Saturday that Mr. Gregory was the victim of a robbery and homicide; his hiking companion was also shot and critically injured and was in stable condition in a hospital in Chico, Calif., over the weekend.
The sheriff’s department said Mr. Gregory and his companion, a 76-year-old man from Manton, Calif., whose name had not been released, were hiking the Iron Canyon Trail north of Red Bluff in Tehama County late Friday morning. The trail is part of the Sacramento River Bend Oustanding Natural Area, managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Authorities said between 11:30 am and noon, Mr. Gregory and his companion encountered a man who produced a firearm and demanded money and personal effects from the victims. “After the robbery was completed, the suspect then shot the victims and left them in the remote area about 100 yards from the trail head,” a press release said.
The two men were found by another hiker three hours later who returned to the trailhead to notify emergency services. Mr. Gregory died at the scene, authorities said. His hiking companion was treated at the scene by paramedics and airlifted to a nearby hospital. A manhunt was under way over the weekend for the suspect, who was still at large. Police detectives were were circulating a description for the suspect and seeking assistance and information from the public.
Flowers appeared on front steps of EduComp building Sunday afternoon.
Flowers appeared on front steps of EduComp building Sunday afternoon.
Mr. Gregory, 69, was well known on the Vineyard where he lived year round in West Tisbury and had taught mathematics in the elementary school. He was the owner of EduComp, a computer and art supply store located in the brick building at the head of Main street Vineyard Haven. He was married with grown children, had served on many boards and had been a soccer coach and referee. He had been the West Tisbury town moderator for 23 years.
The news of his death stunned the Island and expressions of mourning were seen and heard throughout the weekend.
A moment of silence was held at the start of a town picnic at the public saftey building late Saturday.On Sunday morning the town hall flag flew at half staff and the selectmen issued a statement. On Sunday afternoon flowers were placed on the front steps of the EduComp building with an oversized card that people could sign. It said "We Miss You Pat."
At day's end an informal gathering was held at Lambert's Cove Beach. People joined hands in a large circle as the setting sun scudded in and out of gathering clouds on a cool May day.
“Our hearts break for his family,” said Cynthia Mitchell, a West Tisbury selectman and friend, earlier in the weekend.
“The West Tisbury board of selectmen, with great sorrow, wishes to express its deep shock and sadness at the tragic death of long time town moderator Pat Gregory,” the selectmen said in the statement. “Our hearts go out to Pat’s family and friends and we offer our deepest condolences.
West Tisbury town moderator for 23 years.
West Tisbury town moderator for 23 years.
“Pat had served the town for 23 years as its always calm and collected moderator. We will miss his company and light touch at town meetings.
“We know we speak for all of West Tisbury and the Island when we say that we will join his family and friends to honor and celebrate his memory.”
In an interview with the Gazette several years ago, Mr. Gregory said he was inspired to run for the job of moderator by his experience as a teacher at the West Tisbury school. He said running a town meeting was not unlike running a classroom.
“You want to move things along, so the germane arguments are heard, but you don’t take forever to get done. I try to ensure no individual dominates, and reasonable voices on both sides are heard,” he said, adding: “Democracy works. That’s the bottom line. It’s pretty inspiring.”
Comments
I new Pat through work and he
Aisha NantucketI new Pat through work and he was kind, gentle and helpful. He will be missed.
I have worked with Pat and
Gerri Roche Nantucket MaI have worked with Pat and always noticed his kind and sincere about everthing he did. He will be sorely missed. My heart goes out to his family with prayers as well.
I read the news of the tragic
Eric Billerica, MAI read the news of the tragic death of Mr. Gregory and wanted to offer my condolences to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. By all accounts he appeared to be what anyone would aspire to be: honest, trustworthy, well-liked. I hope that the close-knit residents of West Tisbury and Martha’s Vineyard in general can band together to assist one another and as well as the Gregory family in dealing with such an untimely and unnecessary loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat was one of the most
Carole Vandal Minneapolis, MinnesotaPat was one of the most inspirational teachers and friends in my life. He taught me about heart,soul & the meaning of caring when a troubled 10 year old needed to hear this or face the alternative. He then switched on my passion for algebra and math. The stuff that made me successful as a biologist and med student. This all began @ Tisbury Elementary School. I want Dorothy and his family to know that I have never had you out of my heart in the 45 years since then! That's how deep Pat's love worked miracles. Our world has lost an angel, he is looking out for us with that reassuring smile. I'm trying to celebrate his life in every step I take, I always have. I choose education because of Pat's influence. Biology teacher, Indian Studies teacher, Ojibwe language teacher & now a leader in education. Many warm hugs and blessings as we move forward to celebrate Pat's life... as he would want us to do. ♡
So sorry- still come to
Terre Seelet West Falmouth Ma. formerly ChilmarkSo sorry- still come to Educomp allmost every time I'm on MV. Good man.
My heart is breaking for the
Mary Beth Brooklyn, NYMy heart is breaking for the whole family...
We are saddened beyond belief
Peter and Bree MacLean Oak Bluffs, MassachusettsWe are saddened beyond belief at the news of Pats death. His sudden lost is so senseless. In his life and work he exemplified everyday kindness and great generosity of spirit. He will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to know him. Our hearts are breaking for his loved ones and our island community.
Our love and thoughts and prayers are with Dorothy and their family.
Peter and Bree MacLean
As evidenced in all the
Deborah Mayhew West TisburyAs evidenced in all the comments here and on facebook, the pain in this whole community is huge, but the deep wound inflicted on all Pat's family is almost too much to even think about. My heart aches and breaks for them all, and the path that lies ahead for them. I know from experience that all these loving expressions of sorrow will be some small comfort, as will be the participation of this community in whatever service for Pat is eventually planned.
Pat Gregory taught me Trig at
Jayne W Brady Watertown, NYPat Gregory taught me Trig at IHC in Watertown, NY, where I now teach. He was an inspiration and I enjoyed his class. my condolences to his family and friends.
I am extremely fortunate to
Bruce Stone EdgartownI am extremely fortunate to have known Pat Gregory. And I am so thankful to have been able to spend four leisurely hours with him a week ago Friday. We joined up in a threesome at Mink Meadows. I had made a point to get together in his group as I hadn’t been able to for a little while and wanted to catch up. As we walked, we talked a little about Educomp, more about local politics (as Town Meeting had been just a few weeks before) and about golf. But of course, as usually happens with Pat, talk turned to my daughter, Taylor, who had spent the last four summers (and Christmas breaks) working for Pat at Educomp while she went to college; because once Pat took someone under his wing, he kept an eye on them forever as they started to fly and soar. After the round, we along with our third (Bob Rose) removed our hats, shook hands and commented on what a wonderful, glorious day it had been and privileged to have spent it in each other’s company. Still being in the prime of life, Pat had shot an 83 and took home the lion share of the pot for the day. But I’m the real winner of that day because I got to spend it with him.
I had the pleasure of knowing
Karl Riley West TisburyI had the pleasure of knowing Pat daily for 11 years as a fellow teacher at West Tisbury School, along with Susan Goldstein. Pat ran our mourning meetings with all the students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, sitting on the floor in a large circle. He kept the atmosphere positive and supportive, and it was a wonderful way for the kids to start the day. In those 11 years Pat and I never argued, even when our viewpoints differed. He rejected the critical attitude.
Though I feel deeply for Dorothy and Shannon, may I diverge from convention and say that I am very happy for the great soul who I am confident is now vitally alive after leaving the great body that housed it. He will be missed by everyone who had contact with him, and his life stands for friendliness, intelligence, and an ability to keep us on a positive plane. That bodes well for his present experience in the land of love.
If you read through this
Andrew Fogarty Richmond, VirginiaIf you read through this remarkable outpouring of love and remembrance, and you did not know Pat, you would correctly conclude that he was a man of exceptional compassion and integrity.
If you did know Pat, you will also smile and recall that wicked Irish sense of humor. How often was it enhanced by the world class twinkle in his eye when he was victorious in golf, or cards, or virtually anything he set his mind to?
Make no mistake, however. Pat was both intellectually and personally very much aware of life's sorrows. He simply refused to be impressed. He simply refused not to live his life guided by the priorities that truly matter.
As we try somehow to offer condolences to his wonderful family, we inevitably are left with the knowledge that this tragedy will forever be incomprehensible.
What I do know is the honor of having his friendship is one I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Pat had a beautiful smile,
Ellie Tuck Vineyard Haven, MAPat had a beautiful smile, and I will always remember him that way. I'm so sorry Dorothy
Although I never met Pat
Ann Lees Chilmark and Brookline, MAAlthough I never met Pat Gregory, I am profoundly saddened by his shocking and senseless murder. He represented the highest values of the Martha's Vineyard community. My heartfelt condolences especially to his family and friends, and also to Vineyarders who, like me, didn't know him but will feel the loss of his generous spirit very much.
We were saddened to hear
Butch and Rosie Gaffney Watertown, NYWe were saddened to hear about Pat. Dot, we want you to know that you and your family are in our prayers. Our memories of Pat and you in our early years in Watertown bring us smiles. XOXO, Rosie and Butch
Pat was a golfing buddy of
Gil Oak BluffsPat was a golfing buddy of mine. I could always (all ways) count on Pat for a broad smile, a friendly challenge and always a reminder that he had out driven me for the long drive contest one year. But beyond that . . . Pat was a gentle soul who if ever asked reached out to help . . . and there were many times one did not have to ask for help . . . he saw what was needed and just did it . . . no fanfare needed. I believe that Martha's Vineyard is just a little smaller in size now that Pat is not with us. Prayers going out to his family and we will often say his name out loud and he will not be forgotten.
The earth hesitated in its
Heidi Feldman Tisbury, MAThe earth hesitated in its rotation.
A great one has been lost.
He heard our hearts above his own.
Not to be forgotten, cherished memories.
For anyone on Island interested, there are free Remembrance Ribbons in a jar in front of Educomp.
Pat touched so many lives,
Jim Hrabchak Newark NYPat touched so many lives, mine included in the 70's at IHC in Watertown. May he rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to all his family. He was truly an inspirational teacher.
I have not seen Pat for over
Carla Lee Gilbert, AZI have not seen Pat for over 20 years since moving to Arizona. And even after so much time has passed to feel deeply saddened by his loss is testimony to a wonderful, true, kind, genuine and authentic man. My heart goes out to Dorothy, Shannon, Tim and the rest of his family and friends.
Sometimes life and death make
Ann Hoar Floyd Martha's VineyardSometimes life and death make little sense and this is one of those times. It is hard to wrap my thoughts around why such a fine human being should suffer such a horrible death. I and our whole community will hold you in our hearts and minds Pat. God speed.
Reading the notes of all who
Mary Hinkle O.C., CaliforniaReading the notes of all who loved this man, Pat Gregory, I am honor to know him through all of you. He will live on in those memories of he life well lived. Such a tribute. I only wish to have been blessed with his friendship. RIP Patrick!
I had the good fortune to
Ted Bayne West TisburyI had the good fortune to have worked with Pat at the Charter School. I will sorely miss him in that role and as a neighbor. His wise kindness could be felt all around him - quietly encouraging others to be their wise and kind selves as well. Such a shocking sudden end to such a generous life.
I will miss the man that
Mary Vivian Vineyard HavenI will miss the man that always had time for a heartfelt hello, and a few words that went with his memorable smile. He helped me when my heart was heavy. I am sure many would say the same. Dorothy, I send love.
I was so saddened and shocked
Barbara Dupree Vineyard HavenI was so saddened and shocked by this senseless tragedy. Pat will be so missed!
At every Town meeting, Pat
Thomas Hodgson wtAt every Town meeting, Pat would start by reading the names of townspeople who had died since the previous meeting, and asking us to be silent in their memory. Now we must miss him, in the silence that begins the next West Tisbury Town Meeting.
It is with heavy hearts that
Nancy Gardella Vineyard HavenIt is with heavy hearts that the Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce offers condolences to Pat's family. We've all lost a remarkable person.
My God what senseless,
Suzanne de Cornelia Carmel-by-the-SeaMy God what senseless, heartbreaking tragedy. Deepest condolences to his friends and family...
I knew Pat, through his wife
G. J. Semler Oak BluffsI knew Pat, through his wife's Dorothy's family the LaCombs. All hailed from the North Country as that is the name given to those who come from that part of upstate NY. My wife's family parents and Dorothy's parents each fathered and mothered large family's, i.e., Remillard's 14 children, LaComb's 7 children. The Remillards and LaCombs were good friends and when my wife and I came to the island Pat and Dorothy immediately reached out to us.
Pat and I bounded over common experiences, each of us having played college basketball. Pat was a star athlete at Plattsburgh High, and later played at LeMoyne College, myself at Canisius College, both Jesuit institutions. I've since moved here to the island full time and was looking forward to catching up with Pat on the golf course to relieve all those North Country remembrances. Before coming to the island when I visited, I'd run into him from time to time and always received a big hello. Pat stood for the values this country hopes to espouse in it's citizens. Rock solid,dependable and accountable. We've lost a good one here, and I pray in my heart for his wife and family.
G.J. - I'm sure you don't
Christine Hentz Buffalo NYG.J. - I'm sure you don't remember me, but I was a dormie at Canisius when you played b-ball. I was pretty good friends with Aaron Covington, but wasn't everyone? Your "hot hand" game was legend. And Pat Gregory was my trig teacher in high school in Watertown. It's a funny old world, isn't it?
What awful news. I didn't
M B Norton W Tisbury & Ithaca, NYWhat awful news. I didn't know Pat Gregory personally but as a summer resident of WT I have occasionally attended town meetings. Chairing meetings, especially contentious ones, is a real art. As an academic (now) and one-time student activist (then) I've atrended more than my share of such gatherings. Pat was a real master at that art and I admired his calm composure and his knowledge of Robert's Rules of Order plus his ability to keep everyone present aware of the parliamentary situation, which can be difficult to do. I have been moved by reading all the comments here, including from people whom he taught in NY and on the island. He will be missed. Sincere condolences to his family and hopes for the recovery of his companion, with thanks to the other hiker who got help for them.
This is a terrible, terrible
Katherine Scott TisburyThis is a terrible, terrible loss. I am in shock.
Pat was such a nice, gentle
Nancy Roubideaux Conifer, COPat was such a nice, gentle person. This is so senseless. I pray for his whole family. Rest in Peace, Cousin. You were soooo
loved.
Louise and I are heartsick.
SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt Edgartown MALouise and I are heartsick.
Our hugs of comfort go out to Pat's family, his colleagues, and the thousands on this island who called him their friend.
He was an easy friend to have. Always helpful and caring. Never to hurry to provide some advice.
Like many many others, we will miss him dearly for a long time to come.
SQ
I am so saddened by your loss
Anne Tiffany Roanoke, VAI am so saddened by your loss. I've summered on the island for most of my life; and on Makoniky for the past 40 years. Although I did not know Pat, I feel your loss deeply. My prayers are with his family and the community.
we love you pat.the family
violet lacombe plattsburgh new yorkwe love you pat.the family won't be the same.we loved your kindness,smile &your love of life & family.so sorry tim ,Shannon& Dorothy.you are all in our prayers.
God Bless Pat and his family.
George Brown Oak BluffsGod Bless Pat and his family. What a tragic ending of a rich and giving life.......George
I was always able to
J C MurphyI was always able to communicate with Pat, and I found Pat to be one of the honorable people I have met. he was truly a good soul. I always enjoyed being in his company because it was like standing next to truth and wisdom.
One of the things to come out
Michele Lazerow Maine & Oak BluffsOne of the things to come out of this senseless loss of a gentle, wise soul, that might be considered positive, is, after the shock of it all settles, life's tenuous thread beckons us to cherish every single amazing moment of it. Pat was known and loved by so many people on the Vineyard and elsewhere. I hope his family takes some solace from the love pouring in for and about him. His gentle grace has touched so many lives. He will be sorely missed.
Along with all the previous
Leo Bennett Vineyard HavenAlong with all the previous comments I too will surely miss Pat. He was the first person I approached when I started my own business and believed in what I was doing and became my first customer. I needed a computer system and of course Pat was there for me and helped me with quick books and getting me on the correct path. I also enjoyed playing golf with Pat and liked being his partner as that usually meant you would win the juice(the wager). His scoring somehow most of the time had him winning, "fuzzy math". The important thing to Pat was that Ted D lost. I am going to miss him but his spirit lives on and he is in a beautiful place. My thoughts and prayers to Dorothy and the entire family.
I am so sorry to hear of Pat
Rev. Sarah Tomassetti Tucson, Arizona and Martha's VineyardI am so sorry to hear of Pat's tragic death. My heart goes out to his family. I taught with Pat in the early years, at the W. Tisbury School. I remember when he started Educomp...
He was a great person and so caring about the island community. I remember him fondly. Prayers to all who are touched by this loss, especially Dorothy. Blessings to all.
My condolences go to Kathy
Patricia Smith Las Vegas, NevadaMy condolences go to Kathy Gregory, Pat Gregory's sister and classmate from St. John's Academy, Plattsburgh, New York. This family had such a fine reputation in our small town. As a classmate, I am so sorry for the family's tragedy. We hear of these horrific acts happening but not so often to a beloved classmate's family. I am so sorry for your loss.
The Iron Canyon trail is not
Jeff SacramentoThe Iron Canyon trail is not exactly remote compared to many of the other trails in Tehama County. It's right out of town and right off Hwy 36, which sees a fair amount of traffic. Hope someone comes forward with information leading to his apprehension. Very sad.
Everyone who knew Pat shares
Bob Dusa Oak BluffsEveryone who knew Pat shares the grief and senseless loss of a very special citizen of this Island community. Not only did he serve the residents well, especially in the democratic process of West Tisbury town government as moderator, but also could have easily been recognized as the mayor of Tisbury for his easy accessibility for anything that mattered at his Educomp business at the gateway to town. Based on the collective comments already noted, the only solace to the tragic loss of someone loved and admired so much is that Pat will leave an indelible mark and a lasting impression with this Island community.
My heartfelt condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to Dorothy and the rest of the Gregory extended family. Pat will be deeply missed and his presence will forever remain in the hearts of many.
I am practically family. I
Shirley Coffey Plattsburgh, New YorkI am practically family. I used to babysit Pat with his Aunt Rita("Tata") in Dannemora, NY and they moved to Plattsburgh as neighbors and he grew into a loving, spirited, generous man who lit up a room when he entered it. He possessed his father's charm and wit and his mother's calmness. The horror of this crime will never, ever make sense. His loving family is devastated beyond words.
He was the kindest man. I
David Palmer Baltimore MDHe was the kindest man. I was lucky enough to be his student at Immaculate Heart Central HS in Watertown NY, and he was our homeroom teacher freshman year. As Will Gallagher noted this week, he let us listen to the Mets vs the Orioles in the World Series during classtime. He taught me how to play APBA dice baseball and among all the fun made sure I got my first grasp of statistics and probability. He always took the Pirates and I the Red Sox. One game he was up a run in the ninth, I had Tony Conigliaro up with men on base and as I threw the dice he said "Walk him!" for an intentional walk. The dice came up "66" which would have been a three run homer. I write this because of his laugh that boomed through that cinder-clock classroom. That great, exuberant laugh.
My mother taught at IHC too and the Gregory's were frequent guests, my parents loved them. We all did. It was a privilege to be 14 and allowed to sit with the grownups and listen to the conversation.
Later on some of us worked for him at the summer camp, he livened that place up, he was fun, a good leader and patient and kind. All the stories in these comments show Pat Gregory is the model for a husband, father, neighbor, community leader and businessman.
Charles Dickens wrote in Hard Times "Do the wise thing and the kind thing too, and make the best of us and not the worst". That was Pat Gregory: the wise thing and the kind thing too.
Such a tragedy! My sympathy
Nancy (Drollette) RawlinsSuch a tragedy! My sympathy to his wife and family. He was one of my favorite childhood friends. We grew up in a very small Adirondack town in the Adirondacks.
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