Gregory M. DiPaolo

Gregory M. DiPaolo died on Friday, May 1, 2026 at the age of 77.

Born and raised in South Philadelphia to Michael and Theresa DiPaolo, Greg grew up in an Italian family with a love of great food, wine and storytelling. He carried these passions throughout his life and shared them generously with others. Greg’s own story spanned from coast-to-coast, filled with experiences and friendships to last a lifetime.

Greg put down roots in Sonoma both literally and figuratively. He cared for his gardens filled with lemons, figs, and olives.  He and his wife Barbara took many memorable trips with their favorite “Slow Food” group, visiting Italy, France, and Austria to indulge in local cuisine and history. 

As much as he loved the sights and tastes of other countries, Greg’s most important work with food was directed locally to those in need. He served as the leader of the St. Vincent de Paul food distribution program at his long-time parish, St. Leo the Great in Sonoma. He supported volunteers who gave out bags of groceries balanced with local fruit and vegetables. Greg’s work was an expression of his lifelong Catholic faith, centered on the belief that we are here to serve others.

Greg’s professional life was built around his sharp mind and financial expertise. He graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia and began his career as a bank auditor. His skill in this area led him to be hired by South Jersey Savings & Loan, where he rose to become Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. He had a rewarding career in community banking, connecting personally with his customers and helping many local families finance their first homes. In 2000 Greg was able to begin a long and enjoyable retirement. He spent many happy hours playing bocce with friends, photographing his travels, and cheering for his Philadelphia teams, the Phillies and Eagles.

Greg is survived by his wife Barbara Hughes, his sister's Marilyn and Michele, his son Geoff, his granddaughters Alyssa and Adrianna, aunts, uncles, cousins, many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, his cherished Australian shepherd Cookie, and many treasured friends.

 A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 601 West Agua Caliente Road, Sonoma, CA 95476 on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private. A celebration of Greg’s life will also be held in the Philadelphia area at a later date.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of By The Bay Health and Primrose Assisted Living in Santa Rosa for the compassionate care they provided Greg through his final weeks with Lewy Body dementia. In lieu of flowers, donations in Greg’s memory made be made to Care Partners Initiative, a Sonoma organization dedicated to supporting individuals and their caregivers confronting the challenges of dementia and memory decline.

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