Some people come along, and their personalities are just larger than life. You can feel the positivity radiate from them.

For many in Maine, Chris Greeley was one of those people.

And it is with the heaviest of hearts that we inform you today that he passed away yesterday.

According to the Holden Police Department Facebook Page:

"It is with profound sadness that the Holden Police Department shares that after a brief illness, Chief Christian Greeley passed away last night.

Chief Greeley served the Citizens of Penobscot County in various Police Departments for over 32 years. He was a Patrol Officer for the Town of Veazie, Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Brewer and finally the Town of Holden.

Chief Greeley started working as a Patrol Officer for the Town of Holden in 2007. He worked his way through the ranks and was promoted to the Chief in September 2015...

Chief Greeley’s humor, stories and personality will be missed greatly by those of us who have known him for many years. Funeral Arrangements will follow at a later time."

 

Over the many decades I have known Chris Greeley, I don't think I've ever had a single encounter with him, where I didn't walk away laughing or at the very least smiling. Always with a big grin on his face, Greeley made it his mission to try to improve life wherever he went.

TSM photo
TSM photo
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He spent many years as a lawman, here in Maine. Most recently, the community of Holden got the benefit of having him as its Chief of Police.

Helping Veterans, Holden Maine Police Department Facebook
Helping Veterans, Holden Maine Police Department Facebook
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Chief Greeley approached the job knowing that the people who usually met up with law enforcement agents were typically not having their best day. So he went out of his way to make sure that as much as possible, he and his crew would provide opportunities for the public to have positive interactions with the police.

He helped spearhead Holden's "25 Days of Kindness" program, where businesses and individuals donated goods and services, and Chief Greeley and his officers would gift those back to Holden community members (either to individuals or organizations) who were in need.

25 Days Sign, Holden Police Department Facebook
25 Days Sign, Holden Police Department Facebook
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But it didn't stop there.

He was always donating his time, energy, and even money to help people across the state. Whether it was helping the Special Olympics, or a local food drive, Chief Greeley poured his heart and soul into not only protecting but literally serving people everywhere he went.

attachment-Chris Greeley 2, Cori Skall
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Those who were lucky enough to know Greeley well were keenly aware of his hilarious sense of humor.

He had the ability to see the good, but also the funny in most situations. It's that great outlook and perspective on life that made him an effective and approachable Policeman.

Growing up on a farm, he knew what it was like to work hard, and you could see that in the extra effort, he always put into things. He was the kind of guy who wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty.

Chief Greeley with Rogue Pig, Holden PD
Chief Greeley with Rogue Pig, Holden PD
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As a husband, father, and friend, he knew the importance of staying connected and checking in. He went above and beyond t to invest time into his relationships. Versed in the aging art of sending personalized "Thank You" cards, and dropping in with little gifts or thoughts, Chris Greeley had a way of making everyone he knew feel special.

attachment-Chris Greeley 1, Cori Skall
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To many of us in the broadcasting world, Chris Greeley was a dear friend.

Personally, I've known Chris since I was in high school. Throughout the decades, since then, some of my favorite moments and conversations have involved Chris. He'd usually turn up at some charity event or public appearance we were holding, swap some hilarious stories, and always leave us with a face that hurt from smiling and laughing, and a generous donation to go towards whatever cause we were trying to help.

I am grateful that the last conversation I had with Chris was one of the most encouraging, positive, and hilarious chats we've ever had. To say he'll be missed is an understatement.


 

Thoughts from other broadcasters:

News Director Cindy Campbell - I first met Chris when he applied for a part-time job with our radio station many years ago. He never held it against me that I didn't hire him. In fact, over the years, Chris has become more of a friend than a news contact. We always looked forward to his visits to the station and would laugh about our conversations even after he'd left the building. One of the last times he came in, talking on the air about the Holden Police Department's 25 Days of Kindness,  Chris gave me a stuffed moose in plaid flannel. Today, it becomes one of my most prized possessions because it reminds me of a man who loved to laugh and lived to brighten the lives of others. Rest in peace, Chris. We already miss you.

 


Our deepest condolences go out to Chief Greeley's wife, Donna Gormley, his stepdaughters, Ali and Sam Gormley, his son, Cole Greeley, and his Brothers and Sisters in Law Enforcement.

A bright light has gone out in our neck of the woods, with the passing of Holden Police Chief Chris Greeley. Let's hope we can all step up and shine a little brighter in his honor.

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