Gregory E. Seeley

A memorial to celebrate the life of Gregory E. Seeley will be held Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Porter Funeral Home, Lenexa, KS.

Gregory “Greg” E. Seeley was born in Gregory, SD, to Florence (Nash) and Jay Seeley on March 2, 1947.

In his youth, he worked side-by-side with his father in Seeley Jewelry repairing watches and clocks, engraving jewelry and awards, and working with customers. He developed a curiosity and love for gemology which continued through his life. He graduated from Gregory High School and the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science degree.

Greg’s life was enriched by his marriage to Mary Lynn Drees on June 19, 1970, and later by the birth of his cherished daughter Erin.

He entered the financial field with Whirlpool Acceptance Corporation, managing the Sioux Falls office, and transferred to Kansas City in 1982. In 1987, Greg took a leap into entrepreneurship, purchasing Fond Memories Engraving, where he spent the next three decades, not just as a business owner but as a community pillar, respected for his creativity, determination to please, sense of humor, love of people, and the joy he brought to every interaction. Greg’s life was a tapestry of warmth, humor, and service.

Greg’s commitment to service was evident during his five-year tenure with the South Dakota National Guard, notably during the response efforts to the historic Rapid City Flood of 1972. He had a tremendous love for our country and always made sure there was a flag flying at appropriate times on the dock at the lake.

Gregory was a man of many passions. Whether he was hunting, motorcycling, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors, he embraced life with an adventurous spirit. His love for fixing things was matched only by his love for traveling with Mary Lynn, exploring new places and creating fond memories. Greg was never scared to take on new opportunities and did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values and was well-liked by everyone, mostly due to his positive energy. Greg had incredible patience and always made time to help others.

Greg, a beloved husband, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his wife of 54 years, Mary Lynn, and his daughter Erin.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Lynn, his daughter Erin Gouldthorpe, his adored grandsons Easton and Everett, and his sisters Mary Jane Green and Marcia Broome.

Greg was preceded in death by his brother Tom, his brothers-in-law Jack Broome and Harvey Green, and his son-in-law Eric Gouldthorpe.