Dean Williams Gray

1926 - 2015

Dean Williams Gray
Aug. 3, 1926 - Nov. 24, 2015
On Nov 24, 2015 I took in my last breath. I lost to idiopathic (meaning cause unknown) pulmonary fibrosis. I was born Aug 3, 1926 in Provo, Utah which places my age at 89. Seeing my parents in their 90s struggle I was ready to go at 89.
I was raised during the Great Depression yet there was always happiness, no needs or wants and when older I realized the secure nature of my childhood and the self-confidence it imparted. I so appreciate the standards and values given to me during those childhood years.
I took flight from that loving home when I enlisted, age 18, in the US army air corps hoping to be a pilot but WW II mercifully came to an end.
Next, perhaps the most satisfying time of my life came when I filled a mission to Argentina. No worries about taxes, education, career, etc. Just hoping to make some people's lives better. As I watched people decline in their health it was there I committed myself to pursue more knowledge about medicine.
Returning home I graduated from BYU, received an MD from Stanford and studied further at Washington University accompanied by marriage and a young family.
I commenced medical practice in 1961 and retired 50 years later. A most enjoyable career. With Drs. Robert Ferguson, Dean Zobell, Glen Lund and Richard Nielsen a clinic was established. From the beginning I received further training, support and wisdom from them. Their impact on my life was profound and I thank them.
After my first retirement I was fortunate to work again at the U of U hospital clinics. It is safe to say that I was outclassed by some very smart physicians who treated me as an equal. Clough Shelton, department chairman, was outstanding as an administrator and physician. Thanks to them for a very uplifting experience.
Now, to a physician's physican. My own personal doctor, William Dunson had several of my health problems which he cared for. Very knowledgeable, very caring. How I wish that medical students could spend time with him. Thanks to Mary Beth Scholand, my pulmonologist who did her best treating an incurable disease.
I consider my life as full of blessings. My biggest regrets & failures were my two divorces and the families that were broken.
I thank the church for opportunities to serve and the spirituality that has shaped my soul.
I am survived by 33 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, my loving wife Annita and daughters Evon (husband Tim Pefaur), Desi (Brandon Haschke), Lynn (Steve Ostler), Melissa (Bryan Holbrook), and Jennifer, my sons Zach (wife Raina), Peter (Susan), and Chris (Cheryl). I was predeceased by my son Steve (wife Janice).
As per my wishes, there will be a private family service on Tuesday, Dec. 1st at Larkin Sunset Lawn Mortuary.