Gregory Lawrence Cesena

Gregory Lawrence Cesena, 63, born on October 28, 1954, in Long Beach, California, passed away May 20, 2018. He resided in Norwalk, California at the time of his passing.

Gregory Lawrence Cesena was born on October 28, 1954 to Ralph Joseph Cesena and Lucille Almada in Long Beach, CA. He grew up in Hawaiian Gardens, CA with his elder brother Ralph Jr. and younger brother, Gary. Growing up he went to Bloomfield Elementary, Tetzlaff Junior High School, and graduated from Artesia High School in 1972. After graduation, he attended Cerritos College until 1974 and completed his undergraduate degree at California State University, Long Beach. At both schools, he played on both offensive and defensive lines for each school's football team. In 1981, he attained his Master's Degree of Science in Human Services.

While completing his Master's degree, Greg worked as a counselor at the Salvation Army Home for Troubled Youth, and later began work for Douglas Aircraft in 1980. He subsequently worked for Northrop Grumman on the B2 Bomber program and for Boeing in the C130 and C17 programs. He completed his 38 year career as a Program Manager.

Greg met the love of his life, Lilia and her daughter Christina in 1989. On March 17, 1990 he married Lilia and had a son Gregory. His family was his greatest project where he provided a stable and successful home in Norwalk. Throughout his fatherhood he coached numerous city sports teams for both his children, volunteered at St. John of God Elementary School, St. Joseph's High School, and St. John Bosco High School.

Throughout his life he had many interests. Throughout college he was a bodybuilder and he kept his rigorous workout schedule at five days a week through much of his life. He was an avid fan of the Oakland Raiders and enjoyed working on his Camaros while being a member of the Camaro 5 Car Club. His biggest passion was his family and his pets.

Gregory is preceded in death by his father, mother, his brother Ralph, and nephew Ralph III. He is survived by his wife, Lilia, his children, Christina and Gregory, two grandchildren, and his siblings Gary, Yesenia, and Chris.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forest Lawn, Cypress, California.