Gregory Andre Corniea

Corniea, Gregory "Greg" Andre
September 4, 1970 - August 11, 2025
Though his time with us was far too short, Greg packed more life into 54 years than most could in a lifetime. To know Greg was to be swept up in his energy, his laughter, and his unwavering belief that life was meant to be fully lived.
Born in Shakopee, MN, to Jim and Eileen Corniea, Greg graduated from Apple Valley High School, earned a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Minnesota, and was president of Sigma Chi fraternity. On September 19, 1998, Greg married the love of his life, Marit. Together they built a family raising their three children, Ilia, Uma, and Henrik with an abundance of love and adventure.
Greg's passions were as wide as the sky - skiing, sailing, hiking, coaching, cliff jumping, listening to music and creating joy wherever he went. He poured his whole heart into his kids' lives, faithfully supporting Ilia's diving & ski racing, Uma's hockey and lacrosse and Henrik's pole vaulting, hockey and diving. He was the most fun Captain Parent, famous for his hot dog reviews and standing backflips. His kids describe him simply as: "...my best friend."
Greg's joy wasn't only found in the daring adventures. It was in the everyday moments with those around him but especially his family. He loved a family dinner, sitting on his deck, taking a drive with the top down on his convertible, watching F1 after church and simple walks around the neighborhood. He loved a good bonfire, ski trip or heart to heart conversation with those around him. Greg loved to learn and always looked forward to helping his kids with their homework. Greg volunteered time with the Nybora ski team in the early years and recently was named MSHSL Track and Field AAA Volunteer Coach of the Year for helping Henrik's Pole Vaulting team. An award he never knew he received.

Greg loved his family and his community of people. He made everyone feel like his "best friend" but in his heart every one of his friends was his best friend in their own way. He loved people for the gifts they brought to this world. We will all miss his giant smile, his infectious laughter, his habit of making ordinary moments into epic memories. He was selfless to a fault. He worked tirelessly for his family and would give anyone the shirt off his back and we are grateful for it.

Greg's family and community's hearts are shattered, yet his legacy will endure as referenced in the U2 song: a man who lived with "one love, one life", who trusted God's plan. Greg taught all of us that life isn't about what you have or where you are going but its about the journey that's important and makes life beautiful. Do it with faith, love, hard work, passion and music. Embrace all the people who are on it with you. He knew life was a gift and he cherished it.

Two weeks before his passing, Greg texted his daughter Ilia: "Embrace the adventure and trust in God's plan." This was how he lived.

Greg is survived by his beloved wife Marit; children Ilia, Uma, and Henrik; brothers Jay and Tyrone; extended family and countless friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Jim and Eileen, and sister Tiffany.
A celebration of Greg's life will be held Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, MN. Visitation 10:30am, Service 11:30am, with reception to follow. https://www.caringbridge.org/site/9d8f8b9d-778f-11f0-a171-5ba3c5e4c137
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Corniea Kids Education Fund.
www.paypal.me/maritswanson/