The names behind the Lithuanian business, Maistas

Juozas Grybas  

1909.3.13- 4 December 1995

Juozas Grybas was born in Kudirkos Naumiestis, Lithuania. After his parents moved to Jurbarkas, he spent his childhood and part of his youth there. Later, he moved to Kaunas, where he gained valuable experience working at the Lithuanian “Maistas” enterprise.

Returning to Jurbarkas, Juozas continued his involvement in community life. As an active member of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union (Šauliai), he established a Shooting Club in the town. His professional journey later took him to several locations and organisations, including four years working at Baltijos Lloyd in Klaipėda, as well as positions with “Maistas” in Klaipėda, Šiauliai and Naujoji Vilnia.

In 1944, as the Red Army advanced towards Lithuania for the second time, the Grybas family was forced to leave their homeland and seek refuge in Germany. After spending five years there, they emigrated to Australia, arriving in 1949 and being placed at the Greta Migrant Camp in New South Wales.

After completing his two-year employment contract, the family settled permanently in St Ives, Sydney.

Drawing on his extensive experience in trade and the meat industry, Juozas, together with his partners, established a meat products factory. The business became a great success, and for approximately ten years its products were enjoyed not only by the people of Sydney, but also by communities in Newcastle and Wollongong.

After retirement, Juozas enjoyed a quieter life surrounded by nature. He found happiness in fishing, gardening and spending time outdoors.

The Grybas family was a wonderful example of dedication to the Lithuanian community. They were regular participants in Lithuanian church services, cultural events, preparations and concerts. Lithuanian affairs always remained one of their highest priorities. They supported the community wholeheartedly and never passed the donation table without contributing, regardless of who was collecting funds.

Following the funeral service, Juozas Grybas’ remains were accompanied by family, friends and members of the Lithuanian community to their final resting place in the Lithuanian section of the cemetery.

 1995-12-18-MUSU-PASTOGE.pdf p.11 by AVK