William Bruce Gray

Son of Arlene Gray (Heston), and Albert Gray, he was born January 25, 1941, in Dolores, Colorado. He graduated from Jackson County High School in 1958. Following High School, he attended Pueblo College, Adams State College, and Kent State University where he received a Teaching Degree and master’s in education as a school administrator. He went on to a fulfilling 40-year career as a public-school teacher, counselor, principal, athletic director and coach, where he guided and shaped the lives of kids, coaches, teachers and administrators at Waterloo High School (Randolph, Ohio), North Park Junior and Senior High School (Walden, CO) Steamboat Springs High School (Steamboat Springs, CO) and Middle Park High School (Granby, CO).

He married the love of his life, Gaynell, on July 31, 1965, in Beaver County, PA. Together they raised three (3) children. They welcomed their first son, William, in 1968, and their second son Jeffrey in 1972. In 1972, they moved to Walden, CO when he accepted the job as the principal for the town’s junior and senior high school. Their third child, a daughter, Amy, was born shortly after their arrival in Walden in 1975. Over the next six (6) decades, the family made their home in Fort Collins, Steamboat Springs, and Granby, Colorado.

William was a dedicated and loving dad, husband, and grandfather. As a dad and to many kids that knew him as Mr. Gray, he was recognized for his sound and insightful advice, objective and non-judgmental guidance, understanding of the big picture of life, calm and steady demeanor, a quick wit and sense of humor. Of utmost importance, he provided steady support, love, security, confidence and strength to his children and grandchildren that was necessary to navigate life’s challenges.

His love for his wife Gaynell was truly recognized when Alzheimer’s slowly took pieces of her way. With sadness in his eyes his love and devotion to her were highlighted through his endless patience and care, and the promise to stay beside her no matter how hard the days became.

William enjoyed the outdoors, fly-fishing, cross-country skiing, backpacking, and hiking with his family and friends. He was active in sports, baseball, softball, basketball and football during his life as a participant, spectator and, most satisfying to him, as a coach. Later in life, and after retirement he developed a fondness for travel, and loved the history, traditions and culture of Ireland the most.

He is survived by his children William E. Gray (Stephanie), Jeffrey H. Gray (Holly), Amy E. Vander Linden (Don); his cherished grandchildren, Alexander, Rhiah, Ava and Maxwell; and sister Karen Reed (Gray).

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of over 60 years, Gaynell L. Gray, who died on March 5, 2026; parents Albert and Arlene Gray; and sister Sandra Phelphs (Gray).

Memorial services will be at Swan-Law Funeral Directors Chapel in Colorado Springs, CO on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association.

Dad (Mr. Gray) will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.