Mr. Gregory A. Maida Sr., 77, of 105 Protection Ave., Galinsky Apartments, Herkimer, passed away Saturday evening, May 10, 2003, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. He was born Feb. 12, 1926, in Dolgeville, son of the late Antonio and Rose (Parr) Maida and received his education in Dolgeville schools. At one time Greg was known as a premier fast-pitch softball player in this area. On June 16, 1944, Greg began service to his country with the United States Army. A veteran of World War II, he served with the 774th Tank Destroyer Battalion, formerly 74th Provisional Anti-Tank Destroyer Battalion comprised of 172nd F.A. Regt. New Hampshire N.G. and 179th Regt. Georgia, NG. He served with General George S. Patton's Third Army, campaigns including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace and Central Europe. He was honorably discharged June 4, 1946, and upon relief from active duty held the rank of technician, fifth grade. He was the recipient of an Army of Occupation Medal, EAME Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal and a Good Conduct Medal. Gregory joined in marriage with his lifetime friend and companion, the former Rose Tangorra on June 18, 1949, at St. Anthony's Church in Herkimer with the Rev. Bell officiating. Greg in his younger years had spent time working in the field of construction and later went on to work with Montgomery Wards in Herkimer. He spent the final eight years of his working career tending to the job he truly loved most, working with St. Francis de Sales School as a custodian. He loved to entertain the children. He was known by many as the unofficial "foreman" of the construction of the new St. Francis church hall. He frequently "oversaw" their work on his daily walks. Many would often stop and ask if he needed a ride, only to reply "Nope, walking is good for you!" His carefree nature and genuine concern for family is a legacy that will continue on. The comforting thought is that Greg is free now once again walking - walking all over heaven. He is survived by his beloved wife, Rose; his children, Gregory A. Maida Jr. and wife Linda of Herkimer; Karen M. Harris and husband David of Frankfort; and Andrea M. Maida of San Antonio, Texas; cherished grandchildren, Gregory A. Maida III; Julieanne A. Maida; Michael A. Maida; Gia M. Vallone and Justin T. Vallone; three sisters, Mary Bullock, Yolanda Marucci and Rose Mullen, all of Dolgeville; a brother, Francis Maida and wife Marlene of Dolgeville; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 13, at 9:15 a.m. at the Holleran-Enea Funeral Home, 200 N. Washington St., Herkimer, and at 10 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Church, North Bellinger Street, Herkimer, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by the Rev. Mark Cunningham, pastor. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer. Calling hours at the funeral home will be Monday (this evening), from 5-9 p.m. Those wishing are asked to consider donations to the St. Francis de Sales Building Fund. Envelopes are available at the Holleran-Enea Funeral Home. The family wishes to thank the staffs of St. Elizabeth Hospital and Valley Health Services of Herkimer for the care and compassion offered.