Elias Pereira Gregorio

Elias was a long-standing resident of Watsonville who passed away among his family members in his own home.

He was 83 years old as he approached his next birthday.

Elias was born on the island of Sao Jorge in the Azores, a Portuguese province. He grew up understanding the old ways and witnessed the transition of changes to Portugal and in his own life. While in Caldeira, he ran the local grocery and bar during a time when there was no access to tractors or automobiles. After moving to America, he was employed as Supervisor by the Kitayama brothers, in the cut flower industry. He did this for 20 plus years and retired in his 60's.

He liked to tell stories, reminiscing about his past, and he had a quick wit and enjoyed to laugh.

He was generous and would volunteer to support local Catholic Portuguese groups.

Elias was an avid card player, playing "Sueca", a game translated as the "Swedish", it is similar to "bridge" or "spades".

When he was younger, he played volleyball representing his area at the local religious festival games for 10 years.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Evangelina Gregorio; his brother, Jose Gregorio; his sister, Fatima Pereira Alves; along with his numerous nieces and nephews, Lassalete, Joe Gregorio, Graciete, Tony Gregorio, and his numerous in laws.

Viewing will be held at Mehl's Colonial Chapel 222 E. Lake Avenue, on Friday, Feb. 18, 2022 from 8:30am to 9:15am. Funeral mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church 2401 E. Lake Avenue, on Friday Feb. 18, 2022, at 10am with burial to follow at Valley Public Cemetery.

Published in The Pajaronian · February 16, 2022