Gregory Paul Ames

Gregory Paul Ames, lovingly known as Greg, was born on December 24, 1949, in Mitchell, South Dakota, and passed away on February 25, 2025, in Milwaukie, Oregon. His life was a testament to his faith, kindness, and unwavering dedication to serving others.

From a young age, the church held a special place in Greg's heart. His family was deeply engaged with 1st Lutheran in Mitchell, South Dakota, where he vividly recalled the joy of singing in the children’s choir and his memorable first solo performance of “We Three Kings” during a Christmas program. This early involvement sparked a lifelong commitment to his faith community.

At the age of 14, the Ames family relocated to Spokane, Washington, where they quickly became integral members of Central Lutheran Church. It was during this time that Greg felt the calling to become a minister. He pursued the necessary education and was ordained on June 5, 1977. Over the years, he was privileged to serve congregations in both Washington and Oregon, either as a called minister or as an interim minister, helping churches prepare for new pastoral leadership.

His final call was to Luther Memorial Lutheran Church in Portland, Oregon, where he dedicated 20 years of his ministry and found immense joy before retiring. Even after retirement, Greg continued to serve as the greeter at Milwaukie Lutheran Church, where he and his wife, Pamela Cook-Ames, formed cherished bonds with their new friends, a testament to his loving spirit and ongoing commitment to his community.

Throughout his ministry, Greg valued his ability to meet many of God's children, participating in their happiest moments and providing solace during their times of sorrow. He will be fondly remembered for his warm smile, infectious laughter, and genuine acceptance of others, treating everyone with kindness and understanding. Greg would have wanted those who knew him to remember him with a smile and peace in their hearts.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela Cook-Ames; daughter, Eve-Maridy Rice and her husband Tobias; son, Adam Cook and his wife Shelley; son, Seth Ames; grandchildren, Madeleine and Kase Rice, Cairo Cook, and Zoe and Ava Schrag; brother, Roger Ames of Tucson, Arizona; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Greg is preceded in death by his beloved sister, Diana Borgum, and his parents, Lester Jay Ames and Helen Marie Ames. His legacy of faith, joy, and compassion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.