Gregory Lawrence Kormann, 70, of Millersville, MD died December 5.

Born 1949 in Baltimore to devoted parents Agnes and Frank, Greg was diagnosed with an intellectual disability attributed to Down Syndrome. At that time, many families with Down Syndrome children were stigmatized. The prevailing medical advice following such a diagnosis was to institutionalize the child as soon as possible.

To their great credit Agnes and Frank steadfastly rejected this advice and lovingly raised Greg at home along with two older sisters and a brother. Greg's talents and abilities soon captured everyone's attention. He attended St. Benedict School through 3rd grade, then transferred to St. Francis and St. Elizabeth Schools for Special Education. After graduation, Greg worked for 50 years at Baldwin Industries and Providence Center in Anne Arundel County.

In his younger years, Greg was active in the Special Olympics and collected multiple medals. He participated in the Handicapped Athletic Program (HAP) duckpin bowling league. He joined the Boy Scouts of America and was a dedicated member of Troop 216 in Severna Park. Greg earned an enviable number of merit badges among other achievements. A diehard fan of the Orioles and Ravens, Greg celebrated every game—win or lose—at the nearest Starbucks.

Greg was blessed with charisma. He loved everyone unconditionally, and after a short time in his presence everyone felt happier. Greg's soft-spoken manner and cheerful personality inspired everyone to appreciate the true joy of friendship and love. Many people remarked that Greg had a soothing effect and helped to reduce the daily stresses of their busy lives. Children especially were drawn to Greg. He never failed to make them smile and laugh with his wry sense of humor.

Greg lived for 20 years in a group home sponsored by Gallagher Services with Catholic Charities. He is survived by sisters Marianne and Agnes, brother Frank, two nieces, several grandnieces and nephew, and innumerable cousins.

Greg will be given a private funeral service at Barranco Severna Park Funeral Home and Cremation Care, P.A, followed by burial at New Cathedral Cemetery in Baltimore. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial contributions to Gallagher Services, 2520 Pot Spring Road, Timonium, MD 21093; or online at www.CatholicCharities-md.org/donate/gallagher-services/ and earmark for The Gregory Kormann Smile Fund.