Gregory G. Paaske of Torrance, CA, passed away on October 30, 2024, at Torrance Memorial Hospital after suffering complications from cancer treatment. Born to Virginia "Ginny" and Gordon, Greg grew up in Carson, California  as the second eldest of five siblings, including Sheila, Christine "Chrissy," Stephen "Stevie," and Kathleen "Kathy." He attended Dolores Street Elementary School, Stephen M. White Jr. High, and Carson High School. From a young age, he developed a love of the ocean and was an avid surfer in the South Bay. When he lost his mother at the age of 16, he stepped into a caregiving role, helping to raise his two younger siblings. Not long after, he got married and welcomed his first child at the age of 19. As a father and supporter for so many loved ones, he developed a wide array of skills and trades, including plumbing, electrical work, construction, and masonry.

A major part of his life was his 36-year career as a Residential Energy Service Technician with the Southern California Gas Company, where he primarily served the Wilmington and San Pedro communities. Greg cared about the environment, and often biked to work from his home in Torrance, which he shared with his loving wife, Jan, three daughters, and many dogs! Toward the latter part of his career, he devoted significant time to representing his coworkers as the shop steward for the Utility Workers Union. The SoCal Gas Company motto, “Glad to be of Service,” was a philosophy Greg truly embodied. Greg’s interest in biking led to him co-owning a business in Lomita, CA, called The Bicycle Source for a short time in the early 80’s. Greg ran the shop alongside his brother on weekends, and it became a beloved local hangout for kids interested in freestyle BMX and racing.

As busy as he was, Greg was always ready to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. Whether fixing a plumbing issue, painting a house, or repairing a car, Greg was often the first to volunteer. If a task required a new skill, he embraced the opportunity to learn (and often to buy new tools at Home Depot!) A dedicated animal lover, Greg rescued many creatures over the years, including a footless crow, but he had a special fondness for stray dogs. His generosity even extended to strangers. He made a point of getting to know  anyone who was serving him, whether in a restaurant or in the hospital, recognizing their efforts through kind words, thoughtful tips, or gestures like Starbucks gift cards for his ICU nurses, or cookies for the gardener.

In retirement, Greg found joy in a variety of activities, like biking to the beach and swimming from the jetty at Sapphire Street to the Redondo Beach Pier. He and his brother often spent time at the beach picking up trash, body surfing and soaking in the sunshine. Home maintenance and improvement projects, both for his home and those of his daughters, gave him meaning and purpose. He enjoyed listening to music and finding new artists. Spending time at home, reading, doing puzzles, watching Dodger games or simply taking in the sun’s rays in his backyard were also true pleasures for him. He stayed in contact with extended family on a regular basis through frequent texts, and cherished visits from his daughters and their families. Famous for his Christmas Eve parties, Greg filled his home with food, laughter, and love, welcoming everyone with open arms. His storytelling—often embellished for comedic effect—was legendary.

Work ethic, resilience, and caring defined Greg. He led by example, teaching the value of generosity, persistence, and taking initiative. Despite growing up without his own father, Greg became a strong male role model and father figure to both his immediate and extended family. He would listen to your troubles, remind you of your own strengths, give advice, and make you laugh. It was clear that his family came first, and he would always be there for them when they needed him.

Greg is survived by his wife of 40 years, Janett (née Barrios), whom he affectionately called "Jani,” and his three daughters: Lisa Paaske Wyrick (husband Kurt), Shannon Paaske (husband Michael), and Lauren Delhousay (husband Shaun). He leaves behind nine grandchildren: Sierra, Tristan, Mia, Fiona, and Donovan Wyrick; Suleima Mednick-Coles and Noah Coles; and Nolan and Landon Delhousay. He was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Stephen A. Kovac. Although his absence has left a space that will never be filled, we take comfort in knowing he is with his brother, mother and grandmother whom he loved so much.

A celebration of Greg’s life will be held at the family home on March 15, 2025. If you would like to attend, please respond in the Events and RSVP section of this website. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Greg’s honor to causes close to his heart, including the Surfrider Foundation, SPCALA, or Cancer Research Institute. Donations can be made on the Donate In Memory section of this website. Picking up trash on the beach or adopting a pet is another beautiful way to honor his memory.

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