Gregory Boyd Bragg

Gregory Boyd Bragg passed away at the age of 70 from interstitial pulmonary fibrosis at his beloved "Bragg Woods" in Granite Bay, California on June 6, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. Greg was born on July 2, 1946 in Oakland, California to his parents, Melbourne and Yvonne Bragg. He had a fun childhood as the oldest of four sisters and one brother, in Orinda and later Diablo, California. He graduated from San Ramon High School and earned a Bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. He served in many capacities as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, including as a missionary to Southern Australia in 1965-66, and later as a bishop and family historian.

While working in the insurance industry for almost forty years, he earned a deep respect among his colleagues for his kindness, generosity and fairness to all he worked with. His business accomplishments were many, including founding Gregory B. Bragg & Associates, a claims and risk management company that grew to employ over 200 employees. He was a natural born leader who cared deeply for each of his associates and was well known for his win-win attitude and compassion. As a CEO for life, he worked diligently on numerous businesses and projects even after retirement, including his magnificent library and writing his life story, even until his final hours. Although he had his long and successful career, his family was his pride and joy and will remain his greatest legacy.

Family history research brought him great joy as he sought to learn, preserve, restore and convey the stories and heirlooms of his ancestors. He also inspired countless others to perform their own family history research and provided instruction in genealogical methods over the past fifty years. As an avid reader and collector of historical books, he founded Family Tree House / Mormonabilia and later ran Cover to Cover bookstores. He was also actively involved in numerous area and LDS historical societies, including the Mormon History Association. He restored and managed numerous historic homes in beautiful Nauvoo, Illinois; greatly contributing to the economic development and value of the area.

Greg treasured his many red sports cars, especially his original 1955 T-bird, which he recently restored. Greg loved his "Bragg Woods", a five-acre ranch, built with his large family in mind. He was greatly involved in the design and construction on the property, eventually finishing his dream house complete with a fishpond, swimming pool, guesthouse and family library.

His optimistic nature carried him through life's many challenges. He often shared his own life's experiences in counselling others to make good decisions. His positive attitude was appreciated by all those who knew him. He was happiest when he was busy working towards a goal. However, he loved floating in the swimming pool on a hot summer's day and delighted in family vacations, especially to Hawaii and the California coast.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Kathleen, 13 children, 40 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and 4 siblings. He was proceeded in death by his parents, a sister and 2 grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 12 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints, 2610 Sierra Meadows Drive, Rocklin, CA 95677. There will be a graveside service for family at Newcastle Cemetery.

Greg once said, "Let's always try to be a light on a hill, a person who makes others feel happy to be around, who awakens our talents and potential, and brings out the best in others. What a positive world this could be!"