John Gregory, 76, of Corvallis passed away peacefully at home.
John was born in Bronx, New York, to immigrant parents. His family moved to California during World War II so his parents could work in the shipyards. He was raised in the Los Angeles area, graduating from El Monte High School, Pasadena City College, UCLA for his bachelor's degree, USC for his master's degree and UCLA for his doctorate, all in mathematics. He worked as a mathematician in the aerospace industry for 10 years while completing his master's and doctorate. After receiving his doctorate, he was a visiting professor for two years at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and then a professor of mathematics at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Illinois, for the next 35 years. After retirement, he and his wife, Virginia, moved to Corvallis to be near family and also to return to their beloved West Coast.
John and Virginia were happily married for 56 years. They have three children, Bob (Denise) Gregory, Peter Gregory and Cathy (David) Fu; as well as seven of the world's smartest grandchildren, according to John. John is also survived by his younger brother, Ray Gregory.
John was an avid duplicate bridge player, loved to read books on quantum physics, lifted lots of weights and could regularly be seen walking around the neighborhood.
We will miss his smiling face.
At his request no public services will be held.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Benton Hospice or the charity of your choice and sent in care of the funeral home.
AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling arrangements ( www.aasum-dufour.com ).