Brother
Gregory Grabow, O.S.B.
Brother Gregory (Gerald was his baptismal name) Grabow
came to our community in 1983 at the age of 47.
Having a wealth of experience in accounting, he was given
the responsibility as administrator of St. Benedict
Monastery.
Brother was known more so for his
diligent service as cook for our community. His
meticulous concern for making sure “everyone has enough”
extended beyond his purchase of food and preparation of
meals for the his brother monks. Whenever guests
came to the monastery or our “Sunday crowd” gathered after
the Mass, he made sure that food, coffee and other
“goodies” were provided for them.
Brother
Gregory was an inspiration by his
very life. Being diagnosed with esophageal cancer in
the 90’s meant a slim chance of survival. Despite
this, he endured surgery and treatment and beat the
odds. Later he was diagnosed with melanoma and as before, he
overcame that. In the midst of both instances which
many would characterize as a “crisis”, Br. Gregory
continued to fulfill his duties in the monastery inasmuch
as his physical strength would allow.
On Wednesday, August 11 2010,
Brother was called to eternal life. Suffering with
Alzheimer’s disease, he was a resident at Clawson Manor in
Waterford at the time of his passing. His funeral
Mass was celebrated at St. Benedict Monastery on August
14th. Family members, neighbors and friends joined
the community in saying “goodbye” to Brother and thanking
the Lord for the gift he has been in our lives!
Eternal
rest grant to him O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace. Amen.
