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BORN
November 06, 1942
DIED
August 03, 2024
John Gray Obituary
John is survived by his wife, Donyne, daughter Celina, and grandchildren Mariah (Adam), Tasia, and Devin, step-daughter Sarah and grandsons Lucas, Turner and Quinn, step-son Josh (Melissa) and grandson Frankie; sister Linda (Doug), nephew and flying buddy, Kevin (Alana), great-niece Kayla and great-nephew Jayden.
He was predeceased by his parents, Nora and Harvey Gray.
The family moved to an acreage in Royal Oak when John and Linda were young. At 18, John travelled to New Zealand by ship, and after living there, returned home by ship stopping at ports in countries enroute, including Indonesia, India, Italy, England, with many adventures to remember. John trained as a machinist and worked as an Ironworker, like his father, Harvey, building schools and hospitals, bridges and commercial structures.
With a love of the outdoors, John enjoyed taking Celina boating, and spending time at Tod Inlet swimming and aboard the Keeha, built by his father, Harvey.
Flying was John's passion, and he flew small airplanes for over 50 years, over 5,000 hours, through the Rockies, across Canada, the western US, and to Mexico. Donyne loved flights with John, taking photos close to mountain peaks, landing on coastal beaches, landing in Death Valley, Sedona, Monument Valley, and flying to visit family. Many friends were made in the flying community, at John Howroyd's airfield (Butlers), and at the airport Northside where he kept his Cessna 172, ELY.
Time with family, friends, and neighbours meant a lot. Walking our dog, Mario, led to making new friends in Deep cove, and John treasured those times and our life together living in West Saanich and Deep Cove.
We were very touched by the kindness of friends and extended family during John's journey with Parkinsons, and very grateful for the care John received.
Heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to John's well-being over the last few years, Dr. J. Phillips, Dr. G Perks, Dr. Prenger, Dr. W. Schtybel, ambulance paramedics, and Saanich Peninsula Hospital staff. The kind, compassionate care John received while in the Palliative Care Unit at Saanich Peninsula Hospital gave us great comfort.
John passed away peacefully before dawn on August 3.
Fly High and Free, John
No Service at John's request.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Saanich Peninsula Hospital.
Memories and Condolences
for John Gray
Sponsored by the Victoria Times Colonist.
10 Entries
Carol Walker
August 26, 2024
I remember that fantastic night flight to Abbotsford for dinner and then a tour around Victoria area..thank you John..fly high and free once again.
..Mike and Carol
Sharon Pine
August 23, 2024
So very sorry to all John's family. I grew up with John and Linda, as kids we were always at each other's houses. I have many fond memories of fun times in the past. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. Sharon Pine
Carroll Harknett
August 21, 2024
Sorry to hear of John's passing. Although time and years disappear thoughts and memories remain constant. Sincerely, Carroll & Carl Harknett
Reg Smith & Family, former neighbors
August 20, 2024
So sorry to hear of John´s passing. We have fond memories of growing up with Celina in the Conway-Densmore neighbourhood and hanging out at the Grays house. Will always remember hearing of John´s flying adventures and him taking some of the neighbourhood kids up for very memorable flights in his plane. Our condolences to Celina, Donyne and family.
Kathe Parsons
August 19, 2024
Hi Donyne So sorry that John is no longer with you, but glad for the years, love and the fun you had together. May God comfort you.
Maurice and Shirley Hunt
August 18, 2024
So sorry to all his family and friends. We haven´t seen John for many years but have great memories of John in his younger years. Rip love Maurice and Shirley Hunt
Don Billsborough
August 18, 2024
Thinking of one of the kindest person I have known,at a time of her loss . Take care my childhood friend
Colleen Noren
August 17, 2024
To Donyne and family our heartfelt condolences. So glad you were able to share many wonderful years together. Take care Colleen and Dave.
Jane and Les Laithwaite
August 17, 2024
Love and loss are immeasurable. John's was a life well lived; his smile infectious; he loved well. May he rest in peace; he'll be flying high and free. We enjoyed his quiet sense of humor. We will miss him on future visits. Sending love and comfort to you, Donyne, and to your family. Jane and Les
Carol Dorsey
August 17, 2024
My deepest sympathies Donyne and family. John gave me my first and only ride in a small plane, and was a hospitable host when I visited in 2013. Much appreciated. Your cousin Carol.
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