This is the text of the death announcement I sent to family and friends via e-mail broadcast:

Dear Friends,

Sign of the times to use Facebook, Text, and E-Mail to let people know that a loved one has passed.

I hate it, but it does serve the purpose of sharing with you that Gregory died very peacefully last Sunday, October 4, after 12+ years of living with Dementia/Alzheimer’s and a very short illness.

If you are in town, and sorry for the short notice, there will be an open house to celebrate Gregory’s Passing at the condo this Sunday, October 11 from 2:00-5:00. We are at 807 Davis Street. Parking available in public parking attached to the building.

Gregory did not “suffer” with Alzheimer’s. That is really a very inappropriate description to use for anyone diagnosed with Dementia/Alzheimer’s. He LIVED and lived well … beyond the “diagnosis.” It was not always easy to do so, and at times we held on for dear life through our roller coaster ride. Although he slowly lost physical, cognitive, and mental abilities; we were able to compensate and be optimistic and happy and enjoy life together as well as share time with so many of you.

No matter how the illness progressed, Gregory was always fully present in Spirit and he continued to be loving, kind, gentle, patient, compassionate and easily spread love to everyone with whom he came in contact.

When I said my last goodbye to Gregory, after he had been in a coma for four days, I kissed him on his open mouth and he was able to close his lips and push back. He gave me a final kiss! There is magic in life … and there is magic in death. And I am doing well. Not sorry but rather happy. Sad, yes, but happy and centered and ready to re-discover again who I am alone, with Gregory now being my Guardian Angel.

He was NOT a “victim” of Alzheimer’s … He was a HERO!

Minor apologies if you already know of Gregory’s passing via a personal phone call. I tried to call as many people as my voice would hold up for. Or you may have found out via “technology” which is a little impersonal but none-the-less. And finally if my database is not as perfect as I would like it, you may have received several dozen e-mails :-)

A number of people have asked so here it is:

Contributions may be made to:

The More Than Ever Education Fund (MTE)

Created by Gregory Maire and Michael Horvich

and administrated by La Casa Norte,

a non-profit supporting homeless youth and families.

Make your check payable to La Casa Norte (MTE)

3533 West North Avenue, Chicago 60647

or donate online at lacasanorte.org

For more information feel free to e-mail or phone me.