In Memory of

Frank

Gray

Obituary for Frank Gray

Dad passed peacefully to his heavenly home after a full and wonderful life. He is lovingly
remembered and missed by Beryl, his devoted wife of 64 years; his 3 daughters and their
families of whom he was so proud: Allison and Jerry Spence, Lindsey and Robert Runtz, and
Vivienne and Peter Nickerson. His 6 grand-children and their families who he adored: Elizabeth
(Alex), Laura (Craig), Stephanie (Devin), Graeme (Sarah), Timothy (Chantel), and Emily. Six
great-grandchildren who loved him dearly – Noëlle, Brooke and Paul; Francesca and Enzo; and
Evelynne. Dad was pre-deceased by his parents and his grand-daughter Kathleen, his partner in
fun and laughter.

Dad was born in London, England, he was raised as an only child during a terrible time of
war and all that entailed. He served in the British Air Force during the Suez Crisis in Malta in
aircraft maintenance. In 1967 Dad and Mum and their 3 young daughters emigrated to
Winnipeg where they made their home and raised the family. They were blessed with the close
friendship of the Rees and Mitchell families.

Dad was inquisitive and willing to learn and try his hand at anything. He was creative
and had the mind and ability of an engineer. He had a long and rewarding career as a Tool and
Dye maker working at Bristol Aerospace then Motor Coach Industries. Volunteering at the
Winnipeg Aviation Museum for many years in his retirement. He loved to use his mind and his
hands to create, repair and build. He was ‘Mr.-Fix-It’ to many. His workshop, garage, garden
and home were filled with many tools, gadgets, projects and works in progress. Many family
and friends were blessed over the years with his handiwork and creative endeavors including
repairs, renovations, marquetry pictures, bird houses, stain-glass panels, window hangings, and
Christmas decorations.

Dad was a quiet, gentle man who had a wonderful sense of humor. He had a sincere and
quiet faith in God. He was a devoted member of Broadway First Baptist Church for over 50
years where he served faithfully in various roles. He loved the good old hymns, the pipe organ
and loud classical music. Dad and Mum loved to travel, enjoying many trips over the years. They
enjoyed season tickets at RMTC, great food and fellowship with good friends. Dad loved a dark
beer – at room temperature, a quality scotch – no ice, ribs with fries and a good BBQ.
After suffering a stroke in Dec. 2018 dad was unable to return home to Lindenwood
Manor. After a short stay at Grace Hospital and Deer Lodge, Dad lived out the past 3 ½ years at

Tuxedo Villa PCH where he was well cared for by the amazing staff on Station 2. Dad lost his
mobility, his strength and his voice but he never lost his gentleness, love and good humor. He
was an amazing example to many of the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22- 23). Dad’s love,
peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control over the years
was appreciated, respected and admired by his family and all who knew him. Thank you to all
who were involved with Dad’s care over the past number of years of his declining health, God
Bless you all.

According to Dad’s wishes his remains were donated to the University of Manitoba for
medical education. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Donations to honor Dad’s
memory may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or Broadway First Baptist Church.