The Gregory J. Bangay Memorial Bursary Fund
This fund provides an annual bursary to a deserving young mother entering their post-secondary education through the First Steps program. It reflects Greg’s strong sense of social justice and his desire to help those facing adversity.
Gregory Bangay was born in Saint John and grew up in Quispamsis with his parents, Donald and Brenda, brother Paul, and two sisters, Dana and Lou-Anne. On December 30th, 2009, at the age of 31, his promising life was cut tragically short.
As the youngest of 27 grandchildren, Greg had a special relationship with his Nana and big brother Paul, with whom he shared a love of hockey, volleyball, basketball, soccer and football. “My little brother was always there for me,” says Paul. “He helped me through some rough times.”
Greg and his father Don worked on home projects together and often discussed Greg’s long-term plans. He was a person who demanded little and was satisfied living a simple life. “From the time he was born it was so easy to love him,” his sister Dana remembers. “Greg possessed wisdom and intelligence beyond his years.”
Always showing a special interest in their lives, his nieces and nephews delighted in Greg’s entertaining company. He had the ability to light up a room with his talent for impressions and accents.
Fluently bilingual, Greg excelled in math and science, graduating with honours from Kennebecasis Valley High School. He loved music and had an aptitude for guitar and keyboard. He was well-read and interested in environmental causes. Greg attended the University of New Brunswick in Saint John where he became skilled in information technology. As a member of the work force, he had a strong work ethic and was a team player.
Greg was well-liked and had a close circle of friends who describe him as kind, trustworthy, respectful and funny. His sympathy to those down on their luck will leave him forever missed.
In honour of their son, Greg’s parents have established The Gregory J. Bangay Memorial Bursary Fund. Their wish is to contribute to the life and development of a young person as they pursue post-secondary studies The award will support young mothers entering post secondary education through the First Steps program. A deserving graduate will be selected annually for the award of $500.
“Greg had a strong sense of social justice and felt deeply for those marginalized by poverty or circumstance,” says his mother. “We hope this bursary will give a young mom and her babe more options in life. Greg always wanted to make a difference and we want to be his vehicle for change.”
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