Gregory Crep

Gregory Crep, a devoted family man and longtime University of North Texas employee, passed away on April 4, 2026, in Denton, Texas, at the age of 73. Born on April 16, 1952, in Mineola, New York, Greg’s life was marked by dedication, love, and a great passion for family, friends and fishing. He is survived by his Wife Martha Crep, Son Steven Crep and wife Ali, six grandchildren—Brandon Estetter, Kolton Crep, Konner Crep, Cain Leyva, Alora Leyva, and Pierce Crep—and also great-grandchildren  Zalley and Kayson.  Also survived by Sister-in-Law Shirley Brown, and husband Jim Brown, Sister-in-Law Becky Crep.

Greg’s career at the University of North Texas spanned nearly three decades, beginning in the summers of his high school years from 1969 to 1971 where he worked on the Grounds and Moving Crew. He began in 1972 serving as Assistant Director for the UNT Coliseum. Over time, he expanded his career by joining both the HVAC and Welding Departments, demonstrating a commitment to the institution that shaped much of his adult life. His professional journey was a testament to hard work and adaptability.

He was educated at Denton High School, from which he graduated in 1970-71, Greg furthered his studies with two years at the University of North Texas.

He shared 55 years of marriage with his wife, Martha Crep who also was his caregiver for the last 20 years. Their marriage endured life’s challenges with love, supported by mutual respect, faith, and a joyous sense of humor that lifted them through difficult times. His greatest pride came from his role as a father to his son, Steven Crep, and as a grandfather to six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Greg affectionately was known as Papaw, and cherished every moment with his family, always so happy to see them and appreciated their support during his more than 20 years of health struggles.

Fishing was Greg’s lifelong passion, a joyful activity he first shared as a child with his father and brother. He often joked that during the crappie runs, his wife became a “fishing widow,” reflecting his deep love for the sport. Alongside his best friend Mike Murray, Greg fished frequently, especially at night from February through April, creating countless memories and strengthening bonds of friendship.

Greg’s personality was sometimes a little rough around the edges but also defined by warmth, humor, and love. Those who knew him remember him as a blessing — a man who embraced life with all its struggles with laughter and kindness. In his final days, Greg found peace knowing he was surrounded by the love of his family. It is said he walked for the first time since 2010 through the Pearly Gates of Heaven, greeted by those who had gone before him, including his Father Paul Crep, Mother Mildred Ardoin, Brother Paul Crep, and in-laws Buck and Ruth Buchanan and lots of other family members and friends.

Respecting Greg’s wishes, no formal service will be held. Instead, his family plans to scatter his ashes at some point at one of his favorite fishing spots. This intimate gathering of friends and family will serve as a celebration of his life—a time to share stories, laughter, and the cherished memories that honor a remarkable man.

Gregory Crep’s legacy of love, dedication, and joy will remain forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind. His family treasures the blessing of his life and will carry his memory forever in their hearts and minds with love and respect. Resting high on that mountain, and finding a permanent fishing hole, Greg now joins his Lord, family, and friends in eternal peace. He will be deeply loved and always missed.

His family would love to thank all of his family and friends that have always been there through the many bumps in the road of his life.  We also want to thank his Doctors and Nurses who have showed such compassion and have taken such wonderful care of him through all of the many years of health struggles. The staff and Doctors at Texas Health were so wonderful to him and our family the last 2 weeks of his precious life on this earth.