Louis "Lou" Greggs-husband, father, grandfather, mechanic, and collector of classic cars-died on Tuesday, December 10, 2013 in Walla Walla, WA due to complications following heart surgery. He was 73.
Lou was born in Bellingham, WA on October 3, 1940, to Richard and Loretta Greggs, who wanted him to become a lawyer. Lou did not oblige them, as he found his calling in the way that machines fit together. Love in the form of wife Michelle Leary brought him to Walla Walla, and he married her there in 1965.
Lou once described his best accomplishment as becoming a father, "although [he] made a shepherd's pie once that was a close second." A laconic and often even a gruff man, the two things Lou never lacked were affection and a good punch line. His sons, Dan and Dylan Greggs, both remember their father as the one who carried them up to bed when they had fallen asleep on the couch and who encouraged them to try new things-from fried eel to downhill skiing-at an early age.
A mechanic from the age of 18, Lou was often seen working on his '53 Chevy Bel Air in the driveway during his days off, wearing his customary leather coat and smoking Pall Malls. He was good with his hands and known to make toys, furniture and walking sticks for residents of the neighborhood at no cost. In his later years, visiting children often nicknamed him Santa Claus and, with his white beard and portly stature, he certainly fit the part.
Lou will be remembered for his wit and his generosity, as well as his habit of having the best-decorated house during the Christmas season. He loved showmanship, a well-polished Camaro, and his family most of all.
A private funeral service was held by the family, but all are welcome to attend the wake at Lou's place of residence. Flowers and condolences may be sent to 445 NE Taylor St. Walla Walla, WA 99362.
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