Gregory L. Bruggman

Gregory L. Bruggman, 46, of Batavia, born May 18, 1975 with Spina Bifida at Genesee Memorial Hospital. He was immediately transferred to Children’s Hospital in Buffalo for surgery. Greg passed away on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at Strong Memorial Hospital. He was predeceased by his dad William “Bill” Bruggman and a brother John Joseph Bruggman, who died in 1966, also born with Spina Bifida.

He lived his life to the fullest, on his terms, never letting his disability stop or slow him down. Greg graduated from Alexander Central School. He worked at Kmart, Walmart, Independent Living and ARC Workshop. In May of 2015, he received a “Friends of ILGR Award”. He was a great advocate and supporter of Independent Living and people with disabilities. He had been a member of St. Vincent’s Church in Attica.

Greg lived on his own, in his apartment, in Batavia for over 20 years. A few years ago he had a wheelchair fire that destroyed it (Scott DeSmit interviewed him for the Daily then) but after a month of renovations he was back. Everyone would see him wheeling around town, at Batavia Downs or the ball game. Greg had been a great fan and booster of the Muckdogs for years and already had his season tickets for this summer.

Greg is survived by his mom Connie (Williams) Bruggman, brother Scott, sister Beth Anne (Michael) Matney, brothers Thomas and Michael (Courtney Treese) Bruggman. His nieces and nephews Christopher (Joyce Garcia Alberty) Guzman, Brandon (Theresa Thomas) Williams, Ryan Williams and Chris Matney, Brandi (Joe Tedesco) and De Anna (Dereck Shaw) Bruggman, John and Jack Bruggman; great-uncle to Landon and Paisley Williams, Aspen Shaw and Anacaona Guzman and many great aunts, uncles and cousins.

There will be no prior calling hours. A memorial service will be held in July at the family cottage in Java Lake. The family would like to thank all of his friends who have helped Greg have a very happy and adventurous life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Greater Rochester Spina Bifida Association, P.O. Box 3, Fairport NY 14450. To leave a message of condolence visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC, 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.