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8 tree(s) planted in memory of Donald Gress
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Tina Truong planted 3 trees in memory of Donald Gress
Friday, March 1, 2024
3 trees were planted in memory of
Donald F. Gress
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Honoring Donald's memory with a tree planted. May its roots mirror his deep impact, and its growth symbolize his lasting presence. Rest in peace. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Pat Gress uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
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After so many unhappy years ~ we were both given a second chance ~ to live , love and laugh. You told me so many times how you never loved someone the way you loved me. I will miss you and love you all the days of my life.
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Stephanie Johnson uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
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Donald Gress Funeral Mass - March 2, 2024 - St. Agnes Cathedral
Eulogy given by Michael G. Mullings, CCO of Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company:
Good morning.
To Pat, Nicole and Debbie, Judy and Larry and the entire Gress family; my heart goes out to you in this moment of profound loss. My name is Michael Mullings and I am an employee at Continental Stock Transfer where Don spent his entire working years after serving with distinction in the US Army. Today, as I stand before you, I find myself grappling with the weight of profound grief, yet also with a deep sense of gratitude for having known and been touched by the extraordinary person that was Donald Gress.
This is deeply personal to me. Don transcended being just a colleague or a boss; he was the cornerstone of our professional lives, a guiding light whose influence reached far beyond the confines of our workplace. For over 55 years, he gave his all to Continental, leaving an unmistakable mark on each of us fortunate enough to have known him. Just let that sink in a
minute. 55 out of his 77 years. As Steven Nelson, our President often says, he was the heart and soul of Continental. I can go even further. He was family.
The memories flood back as we gather here to honor his memory -- a memory etched with the brilliance of a leader, a friend, a confidant; a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother. I recall vividly my last face to face encounter with Don, at his home in November of last year; a moment that now feels both surreal and painfully prescient. In one of those gut feeling moments we sometimes experience, I sought Pat’s permission to visit their home after several conversations with him left me unsettled. The shock of seeing him after four years was profound, and later that night, I confided in my wife, and next day to Steven, unsure if I would ever see him again. Pat, our phone and text exchanges revealed the depth of his struggle. I grieve with you and your family and share in your deep sorrow. I stand in awe of your strength and devotion to Don throughout these difficult years as his health declined.
My journey with Don began in 1988 when I first stepped foot in Continental as a young newcomer to the business. What started as a mere job evolved into a life-altering connection, thanks to his unwavering belief in my potential. For some reason that he never fully explained to me, he saw something within me, something worth nurturing. He wasn’t just interested in me getting the job done; he was invested in my growth and success. He is the principal reason why I work at Continental. He is the reason I sit where I am today. His impact on my life and the lives of countless others at Continental and in the larger stock transfer industry cannot be overstated. Don’s generosity knew no bounds. He freely shared his wisdom, his knowledge, and his time, sculpting not just employees, but future leaders. Personally, I’ll never forget the countless hours he spent teaching me the nuances of the stock transfer business, or the way he advocated for me, even in the face of adversity.
Don often expressed his gratitude for many employees with whom he shared close working relationships. Lucille devoted over 40 years with him before retiring in her eighties; Joel, who he depended on for over 35 years, and Marlene faithfully served as his executive assistant for over 25 years.
He often commended Jeff for his diligence and dedication, particularly evident in his heroic efforts during Superstorm Sandy; and there are many more but time doesn’t permit here. In our own way, we all have vivid memories of Don. Who can forget his Christmas Party jokes? Sure, they were familiar and we heard them over and over, but they never failed to bring laughter to the room. The ladies blushed while they giggled and the men shook their heads in amusement. But Don’s influence extended far beyond professional matters or stories. He embodied qualities of humility and kindness that left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. He instilled in me the belief that genuine leadership isn’t about exerting power or authority; it’s about lifting others up, treating them with dignity and respect, regardless of their position. I’ll never forget the last face to face conversation we had in the office before the pandemic, about 4 ½ years ago. Don was working remotely at the time and was visiting the office to attend an STA luncheon. As he always does, after making the rounds to say hello to everyone, he came to sit in my office and we would chat about family, health, work and his beloved Jets. Out of the blue, he said to me; “You know Mike, I am proud of you. I remember you when you started here over 30 years ago and I watched your growth. I envisioned that one day I would pass the baton to you. I am so proud that you have fulfilled that vision.” That meant everything to me. It was a moment that I’ll cherish forever. Don’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on Continental. His wisdom, his faith in others, and his commitment to excellence have shaped the company into what it is today.
I stand here as living proof of his impact. He is a Continental giant without peer. He stands alone. So, as we bid farewell to Don, let us celebrate his life; let us remember the laughter, the wisdom, his humility and the profound impact he had on each of us. That’s his legacy. May his memory live on in the stories we share, the lessons we learned, and the lives he touched.
Rest in peace, good sir.
Thank you.
Eulogy given by Steven G. Nelson, President and Chairman of Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company:
Don Gress was a beacon -- a shining light -- to us all.
Don was a beacon in setting an example for us all in how to treat people with kindness, respect, and love. In the 50+ years that I knew Don, I never heard him say anything unkind or harsh about anyone. Nor did I ever hear someone -- anyone -- say something negative about Don. He was simply unique – one of a kind – a shining example for us all to emulate.
Don was a beacon as a teacher to so many in his professional life. Many of those here today were taught the fundamentals and finer aspects of their jobs by Don, not because he was told to do so, but because he was always the first to volunteer. He was a teacher and mentor like no other – a guiding light to all!
Don was a beacon as the quintessential professional -- rising up through the ranks at Continental over the course of an amazing 55 years to become first our Operations Head and then our CISO. After years of self-promoted IT and security training Don became a recognized expert in both fields -- an industry icon recognized far and wide by his industry peers.
Don was a beacon in setting an example for how to overcome terrible health obstacles year after year without complaining, even down to the very end. No complaints ever! Remarkable.
Don was a beacon for me in helping me handle whatever challenges I faced in my professional life at Continental, always guiding me with words of encouragement and wisdom; always there for me as my counsel and as my friend.
Don was a beacon in always being the person I could trust no matter the situation, no matter how challenging. He was always there like a rock, unwavering in his support and good counsel. Don was simply the best, unlike anyone I have ever met!
Don was a beacon to all, no matter what they needed, no matter how difficult the problem. Don was always the shining light all could look up to – always!
Simply put: Don was the heart and soul of Continental for 55 years -- I will miss him, I miss him already, as does the entire Continental family.
To Pat, Nicole and Debbie, and the entire Gress family: Don's Continental family sends our deepest condolences and love.
Don remains our beacon.
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Mario Passudetti posted a condolence
Friday, March 1, 2024
I didn’t know Don very well personally, but knew and dealt with him professionally for many years. He was gentle, kind and free with his knowledge and expertise in all dealings I had with him. Don was genuine! A special person!
Will be watching the Mass via live stream. Apologies for not attending in person.
My sincere condolences to all his family.
Warmest regards,
Mario Passudetti
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Yvette and troy planted a tree in memory of Donald Gress
Friday, March 1, 2024
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May you rest in peace donald Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Tina Truong posted a condolence
Friday, March 1, 2024
Sending my heartfelt condolences to the family of Donald F. Gress. He was a remarkably sweet and wonderful person whom I had the privilege to know through work at Continental Stock Transfer. Someone as special as he will always hold a cherished place in our hearts, and his memory will never fade. May his kind spirit always shine bright in our memories. Rest in peace, Donald.
With sympathy,
Tina Truong
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Securities Transfer Association lit a candle
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
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Lawrence Gress uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
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Eight years ago after Don and Pat became Floridians. It was so great to have you just up the street for 3 years.
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Raul Suarez posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Ms. Pat,
On behalf of the company, I offer you our warmest sympathies. Wishing you comfort, peace, hope and strength in this difficult time. We feel very fortunate to have met Mr. Donald. If you may need anything please allow us to help. You are in our prayers.
From: Suarez General Construction, LLC
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Lawrence Gress uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, February 24, 2024
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Maria Calco planted a tree in memory of Donald Gress
Friday, February 23, 2024
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It was such pleasure working with Donald. May he rest in peace. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Richard & Diana Ruiz planted a tree in memory of Donald Gress
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
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May this tree be a tribute to Donald's life. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Theresa Scelzi (CST Family). planted a tree in memory of Donald Gress
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
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Don was a wonderful person and I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He will always be in our prayers. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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glenda friday posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
I've worked with Mr. Gress for 30 plus years. Very sad about his passing. He will be missed..
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Michael Mullings uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, February 17, 2024
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To Pat and the entire Gress family:
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Don. His presence at Continental Stock Transfer was not just impactful; it was transformative, shaping the lives and careers of so many, including mine. Don's guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support were a beacon of light in our professional journeys, and his kindness and generosity touched the hearts of all who knew him. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the cherished memories you shared and in the knowledge that Don's legacy will continue to shine brightly in the lives he touched.
Michael Mullings
A Memorial Tree was planted for Donald Gress
Saturday, February 17, 2024
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at THOMAS A. GLYNN & SON FUNERAL HOME Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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The family of Donald F. Gress uploaded a photo
Saturday, February 17, 2024
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Saturday
2
March
Funeral Mass
9:00 am - 9:45 am
Saturday, March 2, 2024
St. Agnes Cathedral
29 Quealy Place
Rockville Centre, New York, United States
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Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event
Ongoing
Online Event
About this Event
In Loving Memory
Donald Gress
1946 - 2024
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Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book.
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