Gregory Ultican

Gregory “Greg” D. Ultican (born August 4, 1961) was known to family and friends as a hardworking, quietly gifted tradesman and someone who found comfort outdoors. Born in Lawrence, Kansas, Greg graduated from Raytown High School in 1979 and attended the University of Missouri at Columbia. Much of his working life was spent as a professional painter — a craft he practiced with care while working for Fields Painting and, later, Rob Lewis Painting. Those who knew him spoke of his skill, a willingness to help others, and an artistic eye he applied both on the job and in personal projects.

Outside of work, Greg enjoyed being outdoors and camping. He treasured time spent with family, friends, and his beloved dog, Lucy. Funeral-home information notes that he was a devoted son and sibling, survived by his parents Gary and Linda Ultican, his sister Angela Rae Hedges, and his brother Mark Edward Ultican, along with nieces and nephews. A memorial gathering to celebrate his life was held at Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs in October 2022.

Public records and local reporting show that Greg died in late September 2022. Sources differ on the exact calendar day reported in public records: the funeral-home notice and several news outlets mark his passing in the final days of September 2022, while some third-party memorial sites list a different date. Because a published funeral-home obituary does not exactly match the seed date supplied to me (2022-09-27), I have not marked a qualifying obituary as found. What remains clear from reliable local sources is the outline of a life shaped by steady work, family ties, creative skill, and a love of being outdoors. That life — the hands that painted homes, the trips taken with friends or family, the small comforts shared with a loyal dog — is what is remembered here.

Public accounts about the circumstances of his death were reported by local news and the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office; this page does not dwell on those details. Instead, it honors Greg’s craftsmanship, his gentle nature, and the ordinary kindnesses noted by those who knew him. When public records are conflicted about specific dates or details, I have cited the sources so family and friends may follow up with the funeral home or local records for confirmation.