Gregory Blaine

Gregory William Blaine of Burr Ridge passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on Monday, August 24, 2026.

He was born in Toledo, OH to Walter and Rita Blaine.  He is survived by his siblings Joanne, Nancy, Jim, Marian and Marcia; children Kathryn (Mike) Puffenberger, Margaret (Troy) Reynolds, and Ned (Stephanie) Blaine; grandchildren Jack and Nora Puffenberger; William, Elizabeth (Libby), and John Reynolds; and Grant Blaine.  His wife, Elizabeth Ehrhart Blaine, and his siblings Barbara and John preceded him in death.  

Growing up, Greg found his way to the golf course where he became a caddy and eventually taught himself how to play the game.  Upon graduating from high school, he earned the prestigious Evans Scholarship which took him to The Ohio State University.   

After graduation, he moved to Chicago where he began his advertising career.  Working his way up, he eventually co-led Foote, Cone & Belding where his work took him internationally.  His expertise in the advertising industry earned him honors and awards, and many speaking opportunities globally.  Even after his retirement, he was an advisor on multiple communication boards providing his expertise.  

Greg married Elizabeth in 1976 and soon after moved to Hinsdale.  They joined Hinsdale Golf Club where he served on the Board of Directors and became a mentor to those in the caddy program. 

Greg was always paying it forward. As a proud Evans Scholar alumnus, he understood firsthand the power of opportunity and spent his life giving back to the game of golf and his community. He served with distinction on the Western Golf Association (WGA) Board of Directors, helping pave the way for future generations of caddies to achieve their educational dreams. His passion for mentorship also extended to the historic Off the Street Club, where his leadership as a Board Member provided hope, safety, and opportunity for countless youth.

After his retirement, Greg could be seen at his children’s sporting events, coaching his son’s basketball team, traveling the world with his family, being a proud grandfather, and reading books out on the lanai at his second home in Estero, FL. 

A celebration of life will be held at Hinsdale Golf Club on Sunday September 13, 2026, from 2-4pm.  A brief service will begin at 2pm. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Evans Scholars Foundation or Off the Street Club.

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