Gregory Gerald DeCaro

September 14, 1951 – May 19, 2026

Gregory Gerald DeCaro, 74, passed away on May 19, 2026, surrounded by loved ones, after a long battle with declining health.

Born in Rosemead, California, to Natale DeCaro and Virginia Carter, Greg developed a lifelong love of the outdoors while growing up on a ranch in Mariposa, where his family operated Yosemite Market. Life later took him to Los Angeles, Merced, and Fallon, where he eventually graduated from Tomales High School.

At 19, Greg made his way to the Russian River and met the love of his life, Julie Rose Harris, at her family’s beach and resort in Guerneville. He often recalled the moment he first saw her- her long blonde hair shining in the sunlight. For Greg, it was love at first sight. Together they shared 44 years of marriage, raised their two children, Joel and Mia, and built a life in the community they loved so deeply.

Greg spent decades working at Korbel Winery and later ColloPack Solutions. Known by many as “Mr. Fix-It,” there was seemingly nothing he couldn’t repair, build, troubleshoot, or somehow “MacGyver” back to life. He took great pride in his work and was admired for his skill, determination, and ability to solve problems others thought impossible. He especially enjoyed traveling for work, including memorable trips to Italy.

Though only part Italian, Greg proudly embraced that part of his heritage. You could often hear him say, “Mangia,” which in Italian means “eat.” Whether it was offering a full meal or encouraging someone to take just one bite, food was his way of making people feel welcome and showing them he cared. For Greg, food was love.

Greg was compassionate, generous, and larger than life. He loved making people laugh, had an infectious smile, and possessed a natural ability to connect with people wherever he went. Whether he was cracking a joke, offering a meal, lending a hand, or simply spending time with someone who needed company, Greg had a way of making people feel welcome and left a lasting impression on those around him.

More than anything, Greg found purpose in looking after others. His children remember him regularly checking in on their elderly neighbor, Mae, helping with repairs or simply stopping by to visit. Years later, while living in an assisted living community, he formed close bonds with fellow residents and looked after those around him- sharing food, helping others at meals, stepping in when someone was unsteady, even while relying on a walker himself, and fiercely looking out for the people he cared about.

Greg’s caring and protective nature was matched by a fearless spirit. Though small in stature, he was rarely intimidated by much of anything. In his younger years, he even spent time sparring with an amateur boxer from a local sheep ranch in Fallon- a fitting reflection of his willingness to meet life head-on. Whether practical, physical, or emotional, Greg’s instinct was always the same: show up, step in, and help where he could.

In every chapter of his life, caring for others was simply who he was.

Of all the roles Greg held, being “Papa” was his greatest joy. He adored his grandchildren- Payton, Hunter, Scarlett, and Ryder- and treasured every moment spent with them. After losing Julie in 2019, his family became his world. In 2023, Greg moved to Humboldt County to be closer to his daughter Mia and her family, who lovingly cared for and supported him throughout the final chapter of his life. His daughter was always “My Mia,” a reflection of the deep love and pride he carried for her throughout his life.

Greg is survived by his son, Joel DeCaro; daughter, Mia Tamayo (Scott); grandchildren Payton, Hunter, Scarlett, and Ryder; siblings Gene DeCaro, Janet Woida, Lori DeCaro, Kim Gong, Tom Gong, and Doug Gong; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Julie DeCaro; his parents, Virginia Carter and Natale DeCaro; and brothers Ron DeCaro and Bob DeCaro.

A small memorial gathering will be held in Humboldt County. A larger Celebration of Life will be held in Sonoma County at the Rio Nido Roadhouse, on June 19, 2026 starting at 11:00AM- what would have been Greg and Julie’s 51st wedding anniversary. Those wishing to attend are asked to contact Mia for details and to RSVP.