Lawrence John Gretski Obituary

We celebrate the life and memory of Lawrence John Gretski né Grusetskie, known affectionately as Larry, who was called to his eternal rest on October 23, 2025. Born in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, on February 4, 1948, Larry's journey of 77 years was one marked by dedication, faith, and a quest for life that left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Larry's early life in West Hazleton laid a strong foundation for his remarkable intellect, work ethic, and musical talent. He entertained club and wedding crowds by playing a great polka on his accordion. And the next day, he fixed a car engine problem as a renown young mechanic in town. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Penn State University, where he studied Engineering Science, completed a Bachelor of Science degree in just three years and was elected to membership in Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society. His passion for learning continued throughout his career as he sought further learning in executive leadership, program management, and analytics.

His professional life was a testament to loyalty and excellence. Larry devoted his entire career to IBM in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he held key roles internationally and played a crucial part in the Y2K conversion, ensuring a seamless transition into the new millennium. His commitment to his work was unwavering, and he continued to contribute his expertise to IBM until his final days.

Larry's dedication extended beyond his professional life into his personal passions. He found solace and strength in his faith. He was an attendee of Regina Coeli Catholic Church in Hyde Park and, more recently, found fellowship and community at Living Water Church. An advocate for health and fitness, Larry was a familiar face at the Poughkeepsie Planet Fitness, where he worked out daily. His loved fine automobiles and took great pride in his cars, some adorned with his favorite license plate "Y2000". Larry's affection for German Shepherds was well-known, and they were his loyal companions through many seasons of life. Larry was a familiar person in the Hyde Park community, supporting local businesses and restaurants for decades.

He is survived by his older brother, Joseph A. Grusetski, his younger sister, Maryann (Peter) Billington née Grusetskie, nephews Andrew (Kelly) Grusetskie, Drew (Jennifer) Billington, and Alex (Tamara) Billington, as well as grandnephews Leopold, Dabney, Griffin, and Ryker, and grandniece, Kendall. Local friend Britney Mance was mentored by Larry over the years.

As we bid farewell to Larry, we remember the legacy he leaves behind—of faith, perseverance, and a life lived with vigor. God speed, Larry, until we meet again.

Visitation to celebrate Larry's life will be held at Sweet's Funeral Home, 4365 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, N.Y., on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. The Memorial service for Larry will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery, 342 South Ave. Poughkeepsie, New York 12601. Those attending will meet at the office at the Cemetery entrance and proceed to the internment with Pastor Anthony Patton from Living Water Church presiding. Lunch will follow for attendees.

In lieu of flowers, you are welcomed to donate in Larry's memory to Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to help research on the affliction he experienced all of his life - Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, https://www.aafa.org or please contribute to Living Water Church, www.lwcny.org/give  in Larry's memory in Poughkeepsie, NY.