Gregory M. Kincheloe passed away peacefully on his 72nd birthday, September 22, 2024, surrounded by the family and friends who adored him. Greg was a man defined by unwavering honesty, steadfast loyalty, and boundless kindness. He lived his life with a spirit of service to others and a passion for adventure that knew no limits. Always ready with a helping hand or words of encouragement, he embodied the values he held closest. He is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Missy Farren Kincheloe, his devoted sons, Ryan and Michael, his cherished nephews, Frederick and William Kincheloe, and a wide community of friends whose lives he touched deeply.
"As a Hall of Fame Swimmer and Track & Field athlete from the 1970's, we shared one season together when I was a freshman, and he was a senior," commented current Lehman Swim Coach Peter Kiernan. "We also coached in CUNY together when Greg was an assistant coach at CCNY during the 1980's. He went on to coach at the NYAC (New York Athletic Club) for 37 years, having many Olympic and national caliber swimmers on his teams."
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Greg has been a true friend of Lehman Swimming, attending Alumni events and donating to the Lehman College Foundation. He always kept in touch with Lehman Swimming throughout the years and will be missed by the swimming community.
Greg's impact on the world was as vast as his accomplishments. For over 30 years, he was a 757 commercial pilot with TWA and American Airlines, flying to more than 40 countries and ferrying small aircraft across the Atlantic. But for Greg, flying wasn't just about the destinations—it was about sharing the adventure. After nearly every flight, Greg would pick up dozens of postcards, sending handwritten notes to friends and family, single-handedly keeping the local post office in business. Whether soaring above the Manhattan skyline or crossing oceans, he found joy in making each journey an experience to share with the people he loved.
Greg's athletic career was as remarkable as his time in the skies. A three-time city champion in both swimming and pole vaulting, Greg's records at NYU and Lehman College still stand as a testament to his talent and drive. After Lehman, he was recruited to swim for the New York Athletic Club (NYAC), where he became a beloved figure, coaching for 37 years and earning the nickname "Mr. NYAC." His passion for the water extended beyond swimming—he was a master scuba instructor, sharing his love for the ocean with countless others.
Greg was a natural mentor who loved sharing his knowledge, whether in flying, scuba diving, or swimming. His advice often went beyond these passions, as he was always ready to help with anything, from financial planning to home improvement. Greg believed in the potential of others and was always generous with his time and wisdom.
What made Greg truly special was his ability to balance extraordinary accomplishments with deep humility and an unshakable devotion to his family and friends. Despite his many achievements, Greg never lost sight of what mattered most—being there for the people he loved. His proudest role was as a husband and father, supporting Missy, Ryan, and Michael with unwavering love and care. Greg's life was one of generosity, adventure, and service, and his spirit will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness and selflessness will live on in the countless lives he touched.
"To live with honesty, to give with kindness, and to love with loyalty—this is the legacy Greg left behind. His adventurous spirit and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew him"
The Funeral Mass was this past Saturday at Sts. John & Paul RC Church followed by private committal. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to Swim Across America.
