Greg Terjung has passed away; Longtime Junction merchant was 93
Gregor Terjung 1929-2023
photo by Patrick Robinson
Gregor Terjung, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, entrepreneur, artist, craftsman, passed away on the evening of January 9, 2023 at the age of 93 with his family by his side.
Greg was born an only child on September 19, 1929 in a rural area of Chicago, Illinois to immigrant parents from Hamburg, Germany. He spent his childhood working on local farms and playing in vacant lots, joining friends in pranks and pranks. He told stories of rubber band pistol fights in local cemeteries, making their own ice skating rinks and racing bikes with Wizard motors.
As a teenager he worked mowing lawns. He learned to paint from his pastor’s wife and created several beautiful acrylic pieces that still hang in Terjung’s home today. He attended a four-year all-boys technical high school in Chicago and graduated in 1948. Shortly thereafter, he joined the Army’s Western Air Defense Command at Hamilton Air Force Base in California, where he trained and worked as a draftsman preparing maps and charts.
In the fall of 1950, Greg married the love of his life, Gloria Pucci, and two years later he left the Army. Greg and Gloria eventually settled in West Seattle, finding work as graphic designers where he held fond memories of the work and his co-workers. He also found great enjoyment in sharing camping, boating, hiking, surf fishing and snorkeling adventures with family and friends.
Finally, in 1969 Greg found a profession that would serve him well for 50 years – owner of a gift shop in West Seattle. There he again loved his work and found great satisfaction in serving people and forming close friendships. Greg was active in the West Seattle community serving as president of the Junction Shopping Center, was involved in the West Seattle Rotary Club and served as president of the Westside Italian Civic Club (despite his German roots).
After retiring at the age of 89, Greg kept busy in his luxury workshop making everything from furniture to small toys, giving most of his work to family and friends.
It was no secret that Greg had a zest for life, was hardworking, generous, patient, adventurous, kind and loved his family with all his heart.
Greg is survived by his wife Gloria, children Gina McCullough Grohs (Ken), Gail Spores (Beldon), grandson Reis McCullough (Azusa) and great granddaughter Noelle. A celebration of life will be planned for a future date.
Please share condolences, photos and memories with the Terjung family at www.emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Gregor-Terjung
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle
