GREGORY JOHN WITTINE
March 25, 1955 – March 5, 2023
Gregory Wittine passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 5, 2023. Greg was a remarkable individual
who lived an inspiring life despite the challenges he faced. Born with cerebral palsy and unable to speak
or walk Greg never let this define him or hold him back from achieving his dreams. He will be
remembered for his spirit, determination, kindness and smile that would light up a room.
Greg earned his high school equivalency diploma and continued on to earn an Associate Degree from
Nassau Community College. He was a member of the United Cerebral Palsy Thunderbolts Sports team
and competed in wheelchair boccia.
In 1978, he attained the highest rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America and successfully
petitioned the Boy Scouts of America to amend the rules and regulations permitting developmentally
challenged scouts to register and advance in rank beyond their eighteenth birthday. He was invited to
the White House to recognize his achievements and to meet with First Lady Mrs. Carter. He frequently
traveled to Washington DC to advocate for the needs of the challenged. He was the recipient of
numerous achievement awards during his lifetime and found great joy in volunteering in the mailroom
of Long Island Jewish Medical Center New Hyde Park where he completed 20,000 volunteer hours of
service until his retirement several years ago.
He is survived by his sister Judith Manley and her husband Paul, brother Richard Wittine, niece Lauren
Nalls, her husband Brian, nephew, Craig Manley and his beloved great-nephew Charlie. He was
predeceased by his mother and father, Marion and Ferdinand, to whom he was very special and brought
them great joy. He leaves behind family who cherished him and friendships that have endured a
lifetime.
Though the light in his eyes may be dimmed it will never be extinguished in those beloveds who will
forever carry his lessons, compassion, legacy and devoted heart.
Rest in eternal peace dear Greg. Your story was important and you showed us all what is possible to do
in life no matter what cards you are dealt.
Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Greg’s name are asked to consider a donation in his
memory to Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Development Department, 380 Washington
Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575 or online at https://cpnassau.org/giving/
There will be no calling hours. Greg was devoted to his Catholic faith and a mass of Christian burial will
be celebrated on Wednesday, March 8 at 11 am at Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church, 196 West
Centennial Avenue, Roosevelt, NY.
Interment will be at St. John Cemetery in Middle Village, Queens, NY.