Gregory Finnerty

Play the cards you're dealt. It's an old expression at gaming tables, and often a metaphor for navigating through life. Greg Finnerty parlayed his cards into what many would say is the most cherished prize of all -- unconditional love from family and enduring memories for all he encountered along the way. Born Gregory Alan Finnerty on December 29, 1960 in Lansing, he died unexpectedly on October 14, 2020 at the age of 59. He was a middle son among the large family of the late Dorothy and David Finnerty, and is survived by all but one of his siblings, older brother David Michael. His own son, Jonathan, will carry on his father's name, along with 3 grandchildren in Kentucky. Greg ventured to Arizona as a young man, before returning to Michigan. He turned his knack for electronics and technology into a position with Continental Cablevision, then explored numerous other endeavors in subsequent years. He lived and worked in Tennessee for a while, but most recently worked at Black River Stamping in Holland, Michigan. That's where he lived the last several years of his life. He had some tough hands to play along the way, most notably debilitating injuries from an automobile/Bike accident in 2018, but managed to stay positive through each and every obstacle. Always easy to talk with, Greg was the one everyone was happy to see at family gatherings. He was genuinely interested in the welfare of others, never having to be the center of attention himself. His kind words, good humor and conversational diplomacy routinely set the tone for splendid times to be had by all. Though his warmth and selflessness will be missed, so too will the likeable maverick he could also be. He had an affinity for poker, and often displayed the sly grin of someone who was just dealt aces and eights. Sadly, there was no help with the hole card in the final hand, folding on a life that ends way too soon. But rest assured, there will be a fresh deck in heaven, and "Uncle Greg" will play his cards to the fullest. A graveside service will be held on November 6, 2020, at 3:00 P.M. at St. Joseph Cemetery, 2520 Willow Street, Lansing MI 48917. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Gregory Finnerty, please visit our flower store.