Gregory W. Gatz

Greg Gatz was an entrepreneur at heart, building businesses throughout the Dallas, Texoma, and Marble Falls areas. Throughout his life, he made it a priority to give back to those in need, a commitment deeply rooted in his own childhood experiences.

Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, Greg grew up in a large family. After his father abandoned the family, his mother worked multiple jobs to provide food and shelter for her children. With little money left for Christmas gifts, Greg never forgot the kindness of the Salvation Army, which provided his family with Christmas meals and presents during difficult times.

After moving to Marble Falls in the early 2000s and opening his business, Greg began asking friends how he could help families in need in the community, particularly during the Christmas season. His friend Ken Eskridge shared the story of the Dallas Margarita Society, an organization whose members contributed funds to host an annual Christmas party where guests brought unwrapped toys to benefit local children.

Inspired by this tradition, Greg and a group of friends established their own annual Christmas party, giving rise to the Hill Country Margarita Society.

Following Greg's passing in 2011, his friends and supporters continued his legacy of generosity. What began as a small gathering has grown into an organization supported by numerous individual and business donors, with hundreds of attendees participating in its annual Christmas celebration.

Today, the Hill Country Margarita Society, doing business as the Greg Gatz Memorial Foundation, has expanded its mission beyond the Christmas season to provide meaningful support and opportunities for children and families throughout the Highland Lakes community.

The Greg Gatz Memorial Foundation Scholarship carries forward Greg's legacy by helping students facing financial challenges pursue post-secondary education or vocational training, creating opportunities for a brighter future.