Vincent Gray
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Vincent A. Gray, 91, Lawrence, departed peacefully on May 20, 2012. A private family service is being planned.
Vincent was born on May 29, 1920 in Holton, KS, the son of Warren and Clara Gray.
He graduated from Holton High School, and then worked for his uncle in a retail jewelry store in Hiawatha, KS. After the Onset of World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served as an aircraft instrument technician while stationed at Pearl Harbor for the remainder of the war.
Vincent then returned to the northeast Kansas, completed watchmaker school in Kansas City, and resumed his trade in the jewelry store in Hiawatha. Soon after, he discovered his most precious gem, and married Ceola Irene Bauerle of Hamlin, KS. They have been constant companions in the intervening 64+ years. While operating Gray Jewelers, Vincent and Ceola began taking much deserved vacation trips to such locales as Hawaii, Fiji, Tahiti, Australia, and New Zealand. After his retirement in 1976, they were free to pursue more travel to Mexico, Europe, and winter migrations to McAllen, TX. They enjoyed making new friends in Texas, but later felt the allure of living in Lawrence, KS, and have lived there since 1991. During this time they quite naturally became devoted KU basketball fans. Ceola continues to reside at Brandon Woods.
Vincent is survived by “the most beautiful girl I have ever known,” Ceola; three sons, Scott (Lori) of Grand Junction, CO, Charles (Iras) of Hayward, WI, Lynn (Patricia) of Kansas City, MO. He is also survived by the respective grandchildren: Carrie (Keith Hagan & great-grandson Eamon), Lindsay (Shandon Lewis & great-grandson Holden), Sarah (Isaac Frerichs), Bryce and Corey; Hannah; and Joni and Harvest. Four nieces and one nephew also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister, Bonnie Hochuli.
He lived a life that was accentuated by a love of travel, the willingness to try new experiences, whether in food, music, or technologies, and an intellectual curiosity that led him to study and become a Certified Gemologist. He also developed a nearly daily ritual of searching NASA/JPL websites for their latest space exploration photos. May he continue to enjoy that cosmic quest.
The family suggests memorials in his name be given to Grace Hospice and may be sent in care of the mortuary.
Ceola and family, We may have lost touch over the years but I am sorry for your loss. I know you enjoyed many good years together.
Miss Ceola,
I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband. My heartfelt sympathy goes out the entire family and friends. May you find comfort in the wonderful hope Jesus spoke of in John 5:28,29.
Ceola and family-
Sincere condolences from my mother and my family. You were always great friends of ours in Hiawatha, and I was not aware that you were still in Lawrence. I know that your life together and with your family is a set of treasured memories. We are thinking about you in your loss. May God’s peace be with you.
Our condolences to the family. We had great visits when we would see him at various places. May you be comforted in your moments of grief.
Ken and Goldie
Charles,
I am sorry to hear of your father’s death. It’s hard to lose a parent. Please give my sympathy to your family.
Joyce Johansen Bachman
Scott, Charles & Lynn – Dan & I are truly sorry to read about the passing of such a wonderful man / neighbor and friend. I always enjoyed being around them and appreciated how much they loved each other. Your Mom’s Mother’s Day bush is beautiful this year. I keep an eye on it from our kitchen window. Take care and know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Ann & Dan
So sorry to hear of Mr. Gray’s passing. We will treasure our memories of him and his amazing family. Thoughts and prayers to the family with hope that you are all well.
Ceola, Scott, Charlie and Lynn, We will miss your loved one and send out smypathy and love to you and your families. We have many fond memories of our years as neighbors and friends.
Scott, Thank you so much for letting me know of your Dad’s death. Prayers and love to you and all the family. My email is cstorer@inebratska.com. Please send me your email and we will stay in touch.
Love, Carole
I forgot to mention that Charlie truly did a beautiful job on your Dad’s obit. I learned things about him that I did not know!
Carole
Pardon me! Just sending the obit to myself via email.