Gary Gray

Gary C. Gray, 66, of Mansfield, passed away on Sunday, November 21, 2009, at MedCentral Mansfield surrounded by his girls. Gary was born on January 9, 1943, in Chicago, IL to Charles and Elaine Gray. Gary joined the Navy in 1960 and sailed aboard the USS Currituck. After his discharge from the Navy he met and married the love of his life, Jeanie Marie Burcato-Gray on September 18, 1965. They went on to have two girls that lit up his life and they celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary this past September. Gary demonstrated his love to his wife in many ways such as writing poetry "Jeanie My Garage Door Opener" and bringing her home crazy daisies for special occasions. He was a wonderful provider retiring from General Motors as a tool and die maker after 41 years. He also obtained his real estate license serving this area for a number of years. Gary's orneriness made his girls laugh every day. Gary was a big kid at heart and was always playful. He taught his girls to catch croppy by the dozen at Charles Mill Lake and to target shoot better than most marksmen. Gary set a great example in educating his kids to take meticulous care of their possessions and taught them how to be responsible independent adults. After retirement Gary volunteered at MedCentral as an escort. He was a member of the Forty et Eight, Amvets and the American Legion. Gary adored his five grandchildren whom brought him so much joy. Gary touched the lives of so many with his wisdom and compassion and will be missed greatly. Those who had the opportunity to know Gary have been given a great blessing and will let his memory live on forever.

Gary is survived by his wife, Jeanie Marie; two daughters and son-in-law, Kelly Jeff Kisling of Mansfield and Kim Kevin Rosser of Ashland; five grandchildren, Michael Bixler, Kaitlyn and Kourtney Kisling, Grady and Landen Rosser; six siblings, Charley, Alan, Jack, Carol, Tom Bim and Janet; special friends, Jim Moore, Mark Williamson and Joe Mento; special nephews, A.J., Matt and David Gray; and numerous other relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, November 24, 2009, at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Rd, Mansfield, where a Forty et Eight service will be held at 7:30 p.m. A memorial service, conducted by Pastor Bonnie Peltomaa, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2009, at the funeral home. Richland County Joint Burial Detail will conduct military services at the funeral home following the memorial service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Timothy Lutheran Church.