Dr. Julius ‘Dr. Grey’ Gryckiewicz
BARRE, Vt. — Dr. Julius “Jules” Gryckiewicz of Putnam passed away peacefully at the age of 94 Feb. 22, 2025, at Woodridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Barre, surrounded by his family.
Born in New Britain, on April 12, 1930, Jules was the middle of five children of Joseph Gryckiewicz and Helen (Kasinski) Gryckiewicz who immigrated from Poland shortly before his birth. After graduating from high school, Jules joined the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement and was the first of the friars ordained in the Eastern Rite, giving his first Mass at the tomb of St. Peter in Rome.
Jules pursued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree from St. Pius X Seminary in Saranac Lake, N.Y., and a master’s degree from Fairfield University. While in Saranac Lake, he met his future wife, Donna, for whom he later left the priesthood.
He became a professor of education at the University of Vermont, earning a master’s degree in education there and ultimately a PhD from UConn, where his research explored the constitutionality of state aid to non-public schools.
A longtime resident of Putnam, Jules moved there to be close to his ailing father.
He worked for many years in the Putnam Public Schools as an administrator and guidance counselor, where he was known to most by his professional name, “Dr. Grey.”
Jules was an accomplished pianist who enjoyed performing the works of Chopin. He was also a professional photographer who ran his own studio.
His other hobbies included hiking, studying philosophy, theology, and history, and playing chess.
Recently, Jules and Donna moved to Stowe, Vt., to live with their son Jonathan, daughter-in-law Jennifer, and grandson Andrew.
Jules is preceded in death by his brother Joseph Gryckiewicz and sister Cecelia MacLean. He leaves his wife Donna Gryckiewicz; sisters Helen Balint and Leonore Johnson; sons Jonathan Gryckiewicz and Damon Bizuka; and grandson Andrew Gryckiewicz.
Remembrances will be private per his wishes.
Donations: Putnam High School Scholarship Fund, c/o Putnam High School, 152 Woodstock Ave., Putnam, CT 06260. Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St., Barre. Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com.
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