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Gregory Gray Obituary

Gregory "Greg" Gray A dear friend and devoted, loving father, Greg was called to join his family and friends waiting for him in heaven on February 27, 2009. He was strong and stoic in his battle with cancer. Greg had an incredible circle of amazing friends, and you couldn't go with him anywhere without running into a good buddy. Greg earned his living as a real estate broker, developer and investor and accomplished a great deal as a businessman. He was an excellent athlete and a great golfer. He was proud to be a fifth generation San Josean and graduate of Bellarmine and Santa Clara University. He amassed a plethora of friends and enjoyed any chance to laugh. Greg was a master story teller and loved a good, or even a bad joke. He had a zest for life and he will be sorely and deeply missed by those privileged enough to know him and call him a friend. He was an extraordinary father and cherished his daughter Michele from the first day of her life to the last day of his. Michele and Greg had a unique bond of love and friendship that all who know them admire. They shared a love of travel, sports and having a good time with friends and family. To know Michele is to know Greg. She is a living tribute to the man he was and the values he represented. He truly is "the best daddy in the world". Greg was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Urhausen Gray, his parents, Ralph D. and Ruth Musante Gray, and his aunt, Mary Gertrude Gray and uncle, Richard Musante. He is survived by his beloved and loving daughter, Michele Gray; brother Christopher Gray and his wife Suzanne of Fresno; sister Ruthmarie McGuire and her family, Dan, Brian and Erin of Fair Oaks and sister Nina McAlexander and her daughters Reina and Briana of Pacifica. Friends are invited to a Celebration of His Life Memorial Mass at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, March 7, 2009 at Leontyne Chapel located at Bellarmine College Preparatory in San Jose. Burial is private. LIMA-CAMPAGNA-ALAMEDA MISSION CHAPEL serving the family (408) 288-9188. In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembrances be made in memory of Greg to Pancreatica.org, 149 Bonifacio Place, Monterey, CA. 93940; or to the donor's favorite charity.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News on Mar. 4, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Gray

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Rose Connolly

December 4, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of Gregs passing.
I knew his entire family. God Bless
to all, Sincerely, Rose ShortinoConnolly, Las Veags, NV

Alton Purvis

August 17, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of Greg's passing, I just heard about it today August 17, 2009. Ive known Greg for 17years when I bought a home from him back in 1992, I have always known him to be such a great spirit, we went to lunch and dinner a few times throughout the years and had some great laughs. You could not know Greg without at least knowing of his daughter whom he spoke of often, I remember her only as a child and I will never forget how lovingly Greg always spoke of her. My prayers go out to you Michele.
Alton Purvis San Jose CA.

Alton Purvis

August 17, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of Greg's passing, I just heard about it today August 17, 2009. Ive known Greg for 17years when I bought a home from him back in 1992, I have always known him to be such a great spirit, we went to lunch and dinner a few times throughout the years and had some great laughs. You could not know Greg without at least knowing of his daughter whom he spoke of often, I remember her only as a child and I will never forget how lovingly Greg always spoke of her. My prayers go out to you Michele.
Alton Purvis San Jose CA.

jeanne breeden

April 4, 2009

Jerry and I are wish to express are condolences to Michele and to Greg's family. We knew him in life and golf and Bellermine and business and we are deeply sorry for his lose. Jeanne Breeden

Greg Nobriga

March 9, 2009

Michele & Family,
Having all his friends together in one place...Hannegans.... would really have pleased Greg....Greg and I were classmates at Bellarmine and sometimes when we'd visit we'd talk as if it were yesterday..his ability to recall events and sports moments were uncanny...he would remember an event so vividly at times..it made you feel like you were there again...sometimes I'd run into him when my wife Debi & I were out...like each year at the Santa Clara central park 4th of july fest or at campbell summer concert series and it would always be a pleasure to invite greg over to join the gathering or say hello and visit...greg would always have a story to share that would make us all laugh...especially when he and I would tell one about the "Bellarmine boys" antics...Greg was a selfless individual who gave the true meaning to "A man For others"...We will miss him dearly...

Greg & Debi Nobriga

Laura Thomas

March 8, 2009

Dear Gray family,
I was very sad to hear of Greg's death. He was a great person who wanted everyone to be happy, and worked at this by being such fun. I knew him at SCU and through his marriage as a friend of his wife, although we lost touch many years ago. He always loved those around him to the fullest. I am sure you miss him deeply. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have some very happy memories of him. It was an honor to have known him.
All the very best,

L&B Szkoropad

March 7, 2009

This is for Michele,
Our son Daniel and you were in a play group when you were toddlers. I have met both your parents and watched you graduate at Mitty. We are all very sorry to read about your father's death, even though it's been years since we've seen you and your family. God bless you.

Ryan Kotarba

March 6, 2009

Greg, I will see you in heaven some day. I know you probably told St. Peter a story or two as you passed right on through the pearly gates. We never were able to have that last meal together with Michele these past two months. I enjoyed each and every moment I was able to spend with you on the earth so very much and I thank God eveyday that I was blessed with your good company and friendship.

May you rest in peace and your kind and jovial spirit live on in all of us.

With Love,
Ryan

Bob and Melanie Lewis

March 6, 2009

We've gone through quite a few bottles of wine while sitting around talking and listening to stories. Greg always had the most, and the funniest. We will miss him. I wish I had the chance to make him another batch of Pasta Carbonara. Michele, we haven't known you as long, but we will always be there for you.

March 6, 2009

Chris, Ruthmarie and Nina and Michelle...It has been years since our families shared time at Capitola...our mothers were the best of friends...I had not seen Greg since our time at SCU but he will always be a part of my childhood.My prayers for all of you at this difficult time.
Pam Perlenda McCullagh
Santa Rosa, CA

Jaysson Reno

March 6, 2009

Greg, I'll never forget the great talks we had on and off the golf course. You were a great mentor in my life. I'll miss you so much...

Alex Friedland

March 6, 2009

They are not dead who live in the hearts they leave behind. In Greg’s case those that are left behind are many. I did so many things with Greg it is hard to believe he is not with us. Greg loved all sports. I got to play racketball and golf with him. I also got to hear his countless stories and unlimited jokes. I never went to a party that did not have Greg attending. I didn’t ask him to come, he was just always there. But undoubtedly the love of his life was his daughter. He was so proud of Michelle. He always was bragging about her latest exploits. To mention her name made his whole face light up. Greg I will miss you, but you will always be in my thoughts.

Anthony Lombardi

March 5, 2009

I attended SCU with Greg from 1968-1972. Our paths did'nt cross often after that except for a couple of times at restaurants along the Alameda. He always made me feel that he was stoked to see me. I always came away from those brief "stop and chats" feeling like I had just run into a good buddy.
God's speed Greg.

Kristin Williams

March 5, 2009

Greg was an amazing father and person. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Michele you are so lucky to have been raised by such a devoted father and you've become the fearless woman you are because of his love for you. I know this time is so extremely difficult but please remember how much all your friends and family love you. We will help you get through this and continue on like your Dad would have wanted you to.

Theresa Herning Cook

March 5, 2009

Greg was my good pal Nina's older brother.......We all lived on Ayer Ave together.... He seemed so old and so "big" to me. He filled up the room when he came in with his laughter. Nina and I would be in a tree, running round the backs of houses, jumping fences, rollerskating or bikeriding, and up he'd drive in his latest sports car. I did not see Greg much as an adult; I saw him last at his Aunt Mary's funeral. She was one of my Grandma Margaret McEnery's oldest and dearest friends. She actually died on the same day as Gram--Nov.6th. Reading that Greg went to heaven to be joined by his family and friends was heartwarming to me. I am saddened for his daughter and offer my sincere condolences to Michele. To Ruth Marie, Chris and Nina I am so sorry for your loss. I can only hope he is having a grand ol time with your Mom, Dad. Aunt, Uncle and my grandparents too. I pray for his peace and yours. Much Love,

Michel Amaral

March 5, 2009

Dear Gray Family. I have known Greg for over 50 years. We went to St. Josephs' grammar school together. After school we would walk over to his dads' funeral home where Greg would give me rosary beads that were given to family members at funeral services. We were good friends. We played ball together. We were altar boys and we just plain had a lot of fun. We went to differnt high schools but we still kept in contact throughout the years. Greg always had time to talk. We enjoyed each others company and would always laugh. When I heard that Greg was sick it hit close to home. I felt that he was doing well when I would see him and he continued to stay positive. I will miss Greg. He was a good man and a good friend.

Alfred Carlson

March 5, 2009

Michele, you are in our thoughts and prayers and we wish you peace and comfort during this very difficult time in your life.
You will always have the wonderful memories of the time you and your Dad spent together.
In Sympathy , Al & Marian Carlson
Capitola California

March 4, 2009

I'll remember Greg as the consummate practical joker. I also recall that he was gracious when receiving "it" as well as doling it out. For the record, Greg, I still check the earpiece before placing the phone to my ear. Nina, Ruth, and Chris, hang in there. I'll keep you in my prayers.
-Bill Kavanaugh, Fair Oaks, Ca.

Michelle Colombini-Mifsud

March 4, 2009

It has been years since I have seen Greg and Michele. While I was a college student at SCU(almost 20 years ago), I had the wonderful opportunity of taking care of Michele. I have fond memories of my short time of getting to know them. My thoughts and prayers are with Michele and family.

Tom Muller

March 4, 2009

Greg was a good person and will be missed by all who knew him. My sincere sympathies to Michelle and his family.

Brendan Lavelle

March 4, 2009

Living next door to Greg and Michelle growing up, I always admired Greg. He golfed, threw parties, drove cool cars, told those bad jokes he was famous for, hunted and fished; he had this impression of being worldly. In my head, Greg is always going to be that cool uncle.
One of my favorite memories from growing up was being Greg's surrogate son when he went over to Barry Swenson's fishing derby. We would get up early and spend the day fishing. Even though I was young at the time, I was made to feel comfortable by Greg's good-humored spirit. Greg was excellent at smalltalk and story-telling and was well-versed in the history of the neighborhood.
I am going to miss those front yard conversations, but treasure many great stories and memories.

Sherry DeWitt-Gonzalez

March 4, 2009

I had the unique priveledge of working for Greg for the last seven years. He was truly the best boss/friend I have ever had. I do and will miss for a long time. My heartfelt sympathy go out to Michele and his family of friends.

Karleigh Scarpelli

March 4, 2009

I have know Greg and Michelle for many years. I will cherish thoes memories of early morning soccer games, movie nights at Greg's house, DB Cooper paties and the many hellos while walking the aisles of Zanottos. We all will miss you but know you are in a better place, watching over us.

John Stege

March 4, 2009

I got to know Greg a little better in the past 3 years through some fellow Santa Clara University alumni...He always had a bemused look / twinkle in his eye that displayed a genuine love for friends and family...He will be missed by many...

Ross Meiklejohn

March 4, 2009

Greg, I feel so lucky to have had you as a close and dear friend for all these years. There were so many good times we had together but my favorites will always be those nights sitting in the back yard, with a glass of wine, telling stories and laughing at your dumb jokes. They were never very funny but I would listen to them all again if I could. I will miss them, your laugh, and your friendship always...
Until we meet again, my dear friend...
Ross

Dan Orloff

March 4, 2009

I will miss Greg's wry smile and whit. My best wishes to his family in finding comfort in the memories of a very nice man.

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