Jay Norman Grefe Sr., decorated Korean War veteran and Eustis resident of 48 years, departed this world on Christmas morning, December 25, 2022.
Jay was born on February 28,1930 in Sea Cliff, New York to Mabel H Nash Grefe and Matteus Edzard Grefe. Jay developed his love of travel and fishing early as he grew up in Aruba, the Netherlands, and Long Island, New York. After returning from his tour of duty in Korea, Jay was appointed to the Presidential Honor Guard. One of his proudest moments was marching in Eisenhower’s Inaugural Parade.
Jay was married to Helen, his beautiful wife of 62 years until her passing in 2015. Jay is also preceded in death by his parents, his brother Eddie and his wife Betty, his brother-in-law Bruce Freund (Joan), and his loving daughter, Christina Stearns.
Jay will be terribly missed by his son, Jay Grefe jr of Umatilla, daughter, Dionne (Adam) Smith of Dacula, GA; sister Joan Freund of Lafayette, NY; grandson Noah (Laura) Smith; granddaughter Ouida (Jacob) Grefe, many nieces and nephews around the globe, and countless cherished friends.
A service in loving memory of our hero will be held at 12 Noon on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at Harden/Pauli Funeral Home 1617 S. Bay Street, Eustis, FL. A reception will immediately follow at the Eustis Elks Lodge, 2540 Dora Avenue, Tavares, FL. Memorial contributions in Jay’s name can be made to the Army of Hope via the Eustis Elks Lodge.
