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Daniel McRay Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Daniel McRay
Sponsored by Dan's wife, his children and their spouses, and grandchildren..
Vickie McRay
May 4, 2021
No words can express the heartache I feel. April earned her wings and is in heaven with you and the rest of her heavenly family. Hold her close and look after all of us as we try to heal.
April McRay
February 18, 2021
I miss you, Dad. I’ve really been thinking of you a lot lately. I wish you could see all of your grand babies. Your firstborns are grown. You wouldn’t believe how tall Caleb is. Dad, sometimes I just really wish I could talk to you. I wish I had my dad to have father/daughter talks with. I appreciate you blessing me with Vickie, though. She has filled your shoes immensely. I love you, Dad. April
April, Savannah and Caleb
April McRay
July 16, 2019
We love and miss you so much. Dad, please keep Marcie close. Its been really hard losing you both. The people here just dont get it. See you on the other side.
Wish you could see how big the kids are dad.
April McRay
February 17, 2019
I miss you dad!
April McRay
February 17, 2019
Wish you two could have met he's Jona Daniel McRay
Jonathan
February 16, 2019
February 14, 2019
I'm still doing what you asked me to but as you know it's tough exactly how you said it. Miss you DAD#legend
September 10, 2013
What a summer!!! I am sure you are looking down smiling :) The boys have been fishing so much and seeing so many wonderful and new places. We had a wonderful benefit in your honor and raised so much money for Danny Upshaw and his family. It was so amazing to see everyone come together and support such a wonderful cause. Kids started school, Drew in 2nd grade and Claire in Pre-K! They are growing so much. I look at them sometimes and wonder where the time has gone. Love you much and think of you all the time. We all miss you so very much!!! I hope you got the balloons we sent up to you in Heaven on your birthday!!! Love Shelby
Stacy Brantley
July 18, 2012
Thinking of you today!
Stacy Brantley
July 18, 2012
Thinking of you today!
July 13, 2012
It's been forever since I have written. We have a new baby - Alli Fay McRay. She is a sweetheart. Dustin is a wonderful father - you would be so proud! Business is great and we moved to a larger facility but of course you know that LOL We had a toast when we moved out to all the good and bad times we had there. It was bittersweet, but I love our new place. Everyone is doing well. Love you forever and will miss you always.
November 17, 2011
Holidays are here! How I miss you this time of the year. We will have a new grandbaby in February - another girl - always said we would have girl grandbabies. Today is my Claire's birthday. That girl is something - she just has a personality you wouldn't believe. Dan my life is good and I thank you every day. God Bless.
Stella..the bean
November 16, 2011
The holidays are here and I'm thinking of you!
Vickie
January 26, 2011
Its been a long time since I have written. So much has happened in the last year. Our baby will be married in May. I have had a few health issues but am marching on. We did our family vacation to Costa Rica - got back yesterday. Visited at Christmas and miss you with all my heart. As you know Jonathan had a life threating accident (he said you told him it wasn't his time) and he seems to be the Jonathan I use to know. I think he is happy with his life. Matt & Shelby and the kids are doing great. Andrew is 5 today - unbelievable! That Claire is the light in out lives. She would have you so wrapped around her finger. I am moving on with my life and only God knows if I am doing the right thing LOL Thinking of you and will love you forever.
Dad and Savannah
April McRay-Chisholm
January 23, 2011
We miss you, Dad!!!
your wife
February 16, 2010
Dan
Time just keeps marching on, yet I still think of you everyday. Wish I could just talk to you on more time i miss you so much. Believe me I talk you just don't answer. LOL Our family has seemed to have settled down and everyone seems to be on track. Dustin and Brelyn are engaged - no date - he needs to finish school first. Visited you Valentine's Day it is so hard sometimes and yet I feel relieved when I leave the cementary. Thinking of you and praying you are watching over us.
Love Always
December 25, 2009
Dan,
Another Christmas has come and gone. So many changes have been made in all our lives. Wish you were here. I visited the gravesite today. Matt & Jerry did the decorations a few days ago. Wish you could see the grandkids - they are growing up so fast. Going to the ranch tomorrow to relax and get away from Pearland for a few days. You are always in my thoughts and in my heart. Love you forever.
Your Wife
October 14, 2009
Dan,
Sorry it's been awhile since I have written. I miss you everyday and I pray that you miss me too. My life is so upside down I could really use your guidance. I feel like I take 5 steps forward and 10 steps back. I do my best - I just never realized how much we depended on each other. I have decided I can't move on until I am happy with myself and I work on that every day. I am so sad you are not here with me and yes I know I have so many things to be greatful for I just don't know how to get past the pain. You will always be in my heart and I will love you forever.
Your wife
Your Wife
August 17, 2009
Dan,
This time I didn't hit just a bump in the road its a damn mountain. If you were still here I wouldn't being having all these problems. This is when I feel so selfish to wish you were still here having to deal with life problems. You are in the best place ever and at peace with yourself. Maybe sometimes I am jealous that I have been left here to deal with everything alone. But I also know that you have made a place for me when it is my time and we will be together again. Please look after our family, we are very much in crisis and need your guidance. I will love you always.
your wife
July 20, 2009
Honeybun,
It has been three long years since you were taken from us. I miss you every day. Life is hard for me right now and I pray you are looking after all of us. The boys fished Poco and even though we didn't win it was so much fun. At the Calcutta for our boat the auctioneer told everyone that our boys were up and coming and they were already famous on the gulf coast. I was so proud and I knew you were there in spirit.I just so wish you were here to see all of your hard work come to pass. We had a filming crew on the boat and they are making some documentary about our family - I am so excited. Even though there are some days we are disfunctional we still stick together and pray you are watching over us.Love you forever be at peace.
Your Wife
July 13, 2009
Dan,
Didn't write you on your birthday. My mind has been going in so many different directions. Had to collect my thoughts before I wrote you. Things are different since you have been gone. I do the very best I know how and pray - and sometimes I do that alot. I realize now I never told how proud I was of you enough. We laugh instead of crying when we remember about some of the things you did and at the time we thought you were a little crazy haha. Now it all makes perfect sense. I hope you give us the strength to carry on the legacy you left for us. Did visit you on your birthday and others had been there as well. We are getting ready for the Poco tournment. I am going to the calcutta and I am so excited. If we win you will hear me scream for joy in heaven. Look after us and I miss your ever day. Talk to Andrew he has been asking about you.
Stella McRay
June 21, 2009
Dan,
Today is Father's Day and I wish you were here so we could celebrate. I miss watching you opening and reading your cards. I put flowers out on Thursday because I left for Austin on Friday. I've been thinking about you a lot lately. You are so missed by all of us and it's amazing how different things would be if you were still here. I got accepted to nursing school and will start the program in August. I still remember me, you, Jona & Vickie siting at the kitchen table when I fitst thought about doing nursing and you lecturing me on how difficult it would be. I miss all of those little lectures and life lessons you would tell us.
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY DAN!!!
I love you,
Stella
your wife
May 31, 2009
Honeybun,
Another anniversay has come and gone. It makes me so sad. Dustin, Brelynn and I went to Miami and Key West. Dustin interviewed for a Masters program in Miami then we went to Key West for some good times. We both thought about the time we went as a family - you never leave our thoughts. I will have the babies this week Matt & Shelby are going on vacation. I enjoy them so much. That Claire is the best thing ever - she just smiles and is always so happy. You would be so wrapped around her finger. I Still call Andrew - Dustin after awhile he informs me Nena, I'm not Uncle Hoomey. It breaks Shelby's heart you are not here to be a grandfather to her children. I do my best to love them twice as much but no one will ever take your place. Have gone back to therapy I have been having a hard time dealing with lifes little bumps in the road. I will survive this as well. I know you have probably heard me cuss you alot lately its just that I'm so angry for you leaving me here alone. I miss you always. Continue to look after us and be at peace.
Love always
April 12, 2009
Honeybun,
It is Easter afternoon. Things have settled down and I have a few minutes to myself. I always miss you so much on the holidays it just isnt the same without you. We had our Easter Egg Bash and I really enjoy these times with family and friends. By the end of the day all I can do is sit and think about you and how much you are missed. Look after us and know you are always in my heart.
Your wife
Bobby Rychcik
April 5, 2009
Big Dan,
I’ve been meaning to write you and give you my thoughts on your wonderful family! First, your wife Vicky is an absolute blessing to us all, and everyone who knows her. Honest to god, she is so comforting to talk to, and as you know, so strong in spirit and mind. Matt is a genius. You know how he can talk backwards; well recently; he and Shelby went to MIT to do a study with one of the linguistics professor’s up there. She was fascinated by him! Who isn’t? It must be the Irish blood in him. Y’all are known for your intellects - James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw are the first that come to mind. I haven’t talked to Jonathan in quite some time, but from what I hear he is doing great at Y’alls Company. He did sprain his ankle recently dirt biking and that had your wife worrying quite a bit, but he is fine. Dustin is always a pleasure to talk to. I think he is thinking about going for his Master’s degree, but I am not for certain on that. He was supposed to come up here and go snowboarding with Andrew and I, but couldn’t make it. I’ve become good friends with Shelby recently, and she is a hoot! She makes me laugh every day! Oh, and your granddaughter Claire is a true angel. I told Shelby that she is probably the most precious baby that I have ever seen. That’s no lie. She is supposed to send me some pics of her and the family so I can put them on the fridge. Also, I wanted to tell you that I had a McRay Crane N’ Rigging shirt that I wore in Vegas literally every day. What can I tell you, I take a lot of pride in your family name! By the way, I don’t have it anymore, so if you can, try to communicate to one of your loved ones to send me one up here in Pennsylvania. One final thing, Vickie had her phone stolen the other day. The story behind it is pretty funny, so she’ll have to tell you about it when she gets time. I hope you’re doing well up there in heaven, and it goes without saying that you are missed and loved by all who know you.
Bobby
your wife
February 15, 2009
Honeybun,
Its the day after Valentines. Everyone keeps saying with time how the pain of loosing you will get better. They lie. I miss you as much now as I ever have. Went to the cemetary yesterday to bring flowers and talk. I hate doing all the talking and you all the listening. Went to San Fransisco last week with some friends. Had a wonderful time. I try to travel to places where you and I didn't go so there are no memories - but I still miss you being there. Everything is going well and I know you are looking after us. We have all had dreams or memories lately about you. Love you always.
your wife
January 12, 2009
Dan,
Another new year. Dustin is 21. It is so hard to believe. We all laugh because it seems like he has been 21 forever. He & Brelynn went to Tahoe to celebrate his birthday. Matt & Shelby got back from Boston in time for Dustin & Jennifers cake & ice cream. Jona & Stacy went to JacksonHole last month. It seems like the kids get to travel more than me. Work is going well and my life seems to be on an even keel for right now. Of course than can change at any moment. Going back to Corpus on Thursday to finish up Dustins house. All this remolding is getting under my skin. The ranch-Dustins house-the office. The contractor wants to do my bath as soon as he is finished with the office. And of course the boat is still under construction. I wonder what will happen to me when ever thing is finished. You know how I am about always needing a project. Miss you and love you forever.
your wife
December 25, 2008
Honeybun,
Here it is Christmas day. We had are usual family gathering last night. It is so much fun to watch the little ones opening their presents.
All went well and I went to Matt & Shelbys this morning to watch Andrew awake to Santa. I am getting ready to go to Corpus with Dustin for a few days. Jerry and Calvin decorated the cementary for Christmas - as a suprise to me. It was really a nice thing for them to do.
While we were there you dad came by to bring flowers as well. Miss you with all my heart. Love Always
your wife
November 24, 2008
Dan,
Here it is three days before Thansgiving. I carry on the traditions we had planned as a family. I will cook and everyone will come to the house. We had a hurricane in September and we blessed you every day for the generator. We laughed thinking about how you would be telling us how great your idea was to put it in. We have a new granddaughter, Claire Danielle (after you of course). She is beautiful and I am sure a big adjustment for all of us. How we missed you being there for her birth - bitter sweet memories. We know all the plans you have for your grandchildren and we will do the best we can to carry on your legacy. Dustin is continuing to do well at school and we are hoping for a May 2010 graduation. I continue to worry about Jona - he is so much a McRay. Sometimes my heart stops when he says something because it is so you. The ranch is finished and is gorgeous - I am very proud of the way it turned out. Now we are working on the boat. It got some damage during the storm. Never a dull moment. Work is doing well and we seem to really have a good workig crew. I know you are looking after all of us, I just wish you were here to enjoy all that you left for us. I love you always.
September 8, 2008
Dan,
The boys birthdays are coming up. All three of them went on a dove hunt this past weekend and really had a good time. They seem to enjoy each other more and more. The ranch remodel is something. We are restocking the deer population as well. Hoping all to be finished by mid October. You know I curse you and Debbie for leaving me here alone. I miss both of you so much. One day we will all be together again. Our family is continuing to grow. Jamie and Chris are expecting in October. Matt & Shelby in November and Jennifer and Dewayne after the first of the year. I wish Jona & Stacy would be next. I have always said they will have twin girls - I guess we will see. Thinking about and missing you as always.
Vickie
August 11, 2008
Honeybun,
Guess what!!!!! The boys won the fishing tournament out of Port A this weekend. I was not there but they called me and believe me all the whoops and yelling was music to my ears. I was so excited along with the boys. They cried wishing you could be there but we know you were. You would be so proud. Love you always
Vickie
July 18, 2008
Honeybun,
Well today marks the second anniversary of your death. I miss you every day. Andrew was here yesterday and wanted me to call you in heaven. Sure is strange how he has this attachment to you since he was so young when you were taken from us. Please look after the boys on their fishing tournaments. It sure would be wondeful if they won. Dustin is coming home next week. They will all fish the ROCK in August. Went to the cemetary today everyone must have been thinking of you there were lots of flowers. Be in peace and remember I will always love you.
Vickie
Stacy McRay
July 18, 2008
Well today makes it 2 years since we lost you. I don't think you can imagine how much everyone misses you. Jona always tell me how he would give anything to be able to call you and hear your voice. I know that Vickie tries to be very strong but I know she misses you everyday. The boys are fishing the Poco tournament this weekend and I know you are watching over them. Maybe you can work some magic from up there, they would be so thrilled if they won. I love you and miss you all the time Dan.
July 11, 2008
Dan,
Another birthday has come and gone. I miss you so much. Our trip to Belize was very nice and we really had a good time. I really had missed Dustin. He is homesick as well. Hope he comes home soon. Just wanted to let you know I think of you everyday and I will love you forever.
Vickie
your wife
July 1, 2008
Honeybun,
Well life rolls on. I bought a new crane today - 250 ton Tadano- God it makes me nervous to sign notes (you always signed everything before). Everything is going well with work. We hit a bump in the road from time to time but we think about what you taught us and move forward. With your birthday coming up -
I always feel sad. We laugh how you always reminded us it was your birthday for two weeks before and two weeks after. Maybe you knew God had bigger plans for you and your birthdays would be short. I miss you terribly. I will be going to Belize July 4 to visit with Dustin. I try to plan things to keep me occupied when these dates arise that are so painful for me. I pray the children will come to terms with you death and that you are in peace. Love you always
Shelby McRay
June 29, 2008
Dan,
Well you have been on my mind alot lately. I guess with Andrew getting so big I wish so much that you were here. I find out for sure if the new baby is a boy or a girl in a couple more weeks. We have been told that it is 90% a girl. I also wish you were here to be with us during all of this exciting stuff. We miss you so much and know that you are with us. We love you very much.
Stacy McRay
June 16, 2008
Dan,
Today is Father's Day and it's not the same here without you. We all miss you so much. Jona is having such a hard time accepting that you are no longer physically here. I hope that with time his heart will heal. We didn't make it to the cemetary but you were definately on our minds and in our hearts. I love you and miss you. Happy Fathers Day!
June 15, 2008
Dan,
Another Fathers Day. What can I say. It will never be the same without you here. I went to the cemetary today for flowers from Dustin since he is living in Belize. Matt visits you after fishing trips I'm sure to tell you about his great catch. Jonathan still suffers - he just can't come to terms with you being gone. It truly breaks my heart.
We are going to have a grandaughter in late November. This week her name is Hannah Danniel which I love. Then again they might chage it. A group is going to Belize July 4 so we will celebrate your birthday there. As soon as I get back I have to have some minor surgery - I am scared to death THis is when I miss you so much I have no one to lean on. I will start a complete remodel at the ranch late July (remember we were always going to do this) I think you will be pleased with my plans. The boys will fish Poco again this year July 16 - 19. You sure raised some great fishermen. Grown men brag about what fine fishermen they are and how well they handle the boat and take care of it. You would be so proud. I am going to Dallas this week to shop for the ranch. I am looking forward to it. I have decided I want everything that has a Texas star and cowhide. I am really going to make it look manly. Love you always
Vickie
May 27, 2008
Dan,
We went to the ranch this week end. Matt and his family, Jerry & Kay, Dean & his family and myself. We had a wonderful time. We know that was one of your favorite places so we know you were there with us. One of Dustins friends died last week of cancer sure hit him hard she was only 19. Goes to show that damn cancer does not discriminate. While we were at the ranch Andrew looked up one night and said "look at the stars - one of them is PaPa in heaven" I know you two have some kind of bond but sometimes you two are really something. Love you always
Your wife
May 18, 2008
Honeybun,
I sure have been mad at you for leaving me here alone. I know you would be here with all of us if God would not have had a better plan for you. Our anniversary was last Saturday and I placed a single rose on your grave - just to remember it was our day. We had a big party the next day for Dustin's going away.
Over 100 people old-middle & young.
It was so much fun we played volleyball-horseshoes-swam -ate- it was a real good time. I put him on the airplane on Thursday and of course he still calls everyday. I am going there on vacation I just have not decided as to when. You know I feel you close to me sometimes which makes going on easier for me. I just never thought our lives together would have ended so soon. I will love you always!
Vickie
vickie mcray
April 29, 2008
Dan,
Well we are going to be grandparents again. Matt & Shelby are expecting in November. Not the same without you here when I heard the news. It was always great when I had you to share things with - good or bad. Sure hope its another boy since Matthew wants to name it Marlin - yes like the fish. I told him he couldn't name the baby after a fish - says boy or girl the name will be Marlin - sure hope he is just teasing me. Little Andrew talks in complete sentences like Savannah did when she was his age. He tells everybody my name is nena not nana and gets really mad if you try to tell him different - oh that McRay temper. So now I am nena to him and aunt nana to Jamie & Chris's kids and nana to everyone else. Sure wish you were here to see them all growing up but I know you are watching after us. I sure am lonesome and I think about you every day. Jerry and Norris visited the cementary the other day. We all had lunch afterwards - we sure miss you making us laugh. Dustin is moving to Belize for the summer. We are planning a big laua - going away & mothers day party. I am having a big sign made "Belize or Bust - Dustin & Brelyn's Summer Adventure - 2008" I guess this means I will be taking a vacation to Belize this summer. Everything else is going well. Be at peace. Love you always
Your Wife
March 24, 2008
Dan,
We had a big celebration for easter at the house. There seems to be more and more little ones - which makes it so much fun. It was a wonderful day and we had so much fun. Dustin and I visited you Saturday and I'm so glad someone had placed new flowers. I spent the whole day with Dustin - he sure misses you and feels so cheated. I tell him you are with him in spirit and in his heart. He now questions God and is angry that you left us so soon. Time will heal his broken heart. I pray every day our family will find peace with your passing.
Your wife
March 12, 2008
Hi Honeybun,
Missing you. Andrew is visiting and has been talking to you so I know you are here. We have a new baby boy (girls are sparse around here) Jennifer and Dwayne named him Grayson Texas. Dustin loved it -says somebodys got a worse name than him. We all had a big laugh. I feel so blessed most days -even though you left me with a lot of responsibility. I often wonder if thats why you taught me the best you could about the crane business. I will have Easter at the house again this year - everyone wanted to do it here. It seems no matter where all the kids live this is still home. Andrew is saying for you to ride your motorcycle - hope you have a cool one in heaven. We all love you and miss you terrible.
Love Always
your wife
February 27, 2008
Honeybun,
I need you to listen - so much is going on and I just need to talk to you. How you ever had the strength to deal with work and all of us is more amazing to me every day. I walked the yard today praying for you to guide and give me strength to do the right things. You have no idea how much I miss you - I feel like I have no one to turn to - you were always there with the right answers - It is just so hard for me right now. I am so tired of being the tough one - the one everyone depends on -
just for one day I wish someone would take care of everything for me. I so hate having these pity parties I just don't know which way to turn. I would do any thing just to be with you for a few minutes to tell you how much I love you and how much you meant to me. With all of my love,
Vickie
February 3, 2008
Honeybun,
Just got back from Corpus - Dustin broke his ankle and had surgery. Stayed for a week looking after him. I sure have been missing you.
Jonathan is too - he is very depressed - I think he has finally realized you are gone forever. All of this has been very hard on the kids. I pray you are watching over us and you are at peace.
your wife
January 12, 2008
Dan,
The family took a vacation - all 13 of us - to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. It so reminded me of when we use to take ski trips when the kids were little. We all talked about what a wonderful skier you were. The boys said they would see men on top of the mountain that reminded them of how you skied. We thought about you
every day wishing you could be there with us - our family. Andrew took ski lessons - he looks so much like Dustin when he was that age. I ofter call him Dustin and he looks at me like I'm crazy. Remember how you grandmother use to call everybody by someone elses name? I catch myself doing that alot lately. Just thinking about you and wanted to tell you how much I love and miss you.
your wife
April Chisholm
January 6, 2008
Dad,
The kids and I miss you terribly! I don't write on here very often anymore since I visit with you so frequently at the cemetery. I love you and think about you every single day. Love, Your daughter
Sterling Frymire
January 3, 2008
Dan,
We rang in the new year thinking about you. Mona & I miss your laughter and calls but more than that, your friendship. We miss you but know that you are free of illness. I sometimes feel that you are right next to me. Your friend Sterling
vickie mcray
January 1, 2008
Honeybun,
Its the beginning of a new year. I miss you and I think about you every day. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will love you always,
Your wife
Stella the Bean
January 1, 2008
Dan,
Today is New Years, the beginning of a new year! I came to see you on Christmas and it was the first time I had been since your 50th birthday. I think about you all of the time and just wanted to say I miss you and love you!!!
December 29, 2007
Dan,
I just thought i would write you and let you know that we are at the ranch this weekend, which i am sure you know, because Andrew said "Paw Paw is knocking at the door". I seem to feel your presence daily when Andrew has his talks with you. It sure makes us smile. You guys seem to be good buddies! I love you and miss you :)
Love,
T.H. aka Shelby
vickie mcray
December 27, 2007
Honeybun,
We all had a very nice Christmas and everything went well. I miss you so. I know you are looking after us because Andrew talks to you all the time. Your foot stone is finally in place and it is beautiful. Your resting place is just as I wanted it to be - beautiful and simply stated. I wish we would have had just a little more time. I will love you always,
vickie mcray
December 20, 2007
Honeybun,
Thinking of you. Its five days before Christmas. These holidays are sure tuff on me with you gone. You will always have a piece of my heart.
Love always
vickie
vickie Mcray
November 22, 2007
Dan,
Well here it is another Thanksgiving. When we said our prayer at lunch today and everyone had a silent moment to reflect on what we are most thankful for I always think of you. I miss you terribly. Life continues to fly by. Dustin is like a grown man it is so weird. Harry saw him last night and did not recognize him he really looks and sometimes acts like a grown man. Jonathan and Stacy closed on their new house yesterday and are steadily moving. I am sure going to miss them being here in the house, but thank goodness they are not far away. Dustin, Ashley and myself went to the cemetery today to pay our respects. Left you some flowers. I know you are watching after us and I pray that you are at peace,
Love
Your wife
vickie mcray
November 10, 2007
Honeybun,
Just missing you - as always.
Love Always
Your Wife
vickie mcray
October 12, 2007
Dan,
Another birthday has come and passed for me. How I miss you taking care of that holiday for me. The boys took over this year and we had a wonderful gathering at Matt & shelby's new house. I so wish you could see little Andrew. He is such a delight. We all laugh because he just thinks Jonathan is the most wonderful thing ever. He talks to you when he sees your picture. We will always remind all the grandkids of you and and the legacy you left behind. I'm trying so hard with this life goes on thing I just don't know what I am suppose to do next. I think about you every day and pray that you are at peace. I will love and miss you always.
vickie mcray
September 18, 2007
Honeybun,
Well finally your headstone is in place. I know you would be so proud. It is beautiful - simple yet so outstanding. It is truly a tribute to you and the McRay name. I hope everyone else is as pleased as I am.
I know you are looking over us and keeping us safe. Matt and Jona have celebrated another birthday since you have been gone. Dustin is doing well in school and has big plans to join the Marines when he graduates. He will go in as an officer having a degree. I cried the first two weeks after he told me. You know how determined he is. Then today while I was at the cementary he called and told me he asked Ashley to marry him when they finish school. He said we always made him proud that we stayed married for thirty years - thick and thin. We must have made it look easy or something because all of our children do believe in marriage. I miss you with all my heart - love always.
April Chisholm
September 12, 2007
Dear Dad,
This week is Grandparents week at school. I wish you could have been here to go to "muffins w/grandpa" w/Savannah. I went to the cemetery the other day and they've poured the foundation for your head stone. I'm so excited to see it. I know it's going to be beautiful. I miss you and am thinking about you. I was looking at old pictures the other day and I still can't believe you are gone. I don't know if it will ever feel real. I love you, Dad! Love, Your Daughter
Don Bramlett
August 8, 2007
What a great legacy Dan McRay left this world with. Dan McRay is no doubt a man whom i had and have a great respect for. Dan, you are so missed by many. I still have your cell number in my phone, just hoping one day i will get a call from you. To the McRay family, I hope one day I will get to meet each of you. Again, Just want you to know that I am a better man, husband, friend and employee for having known Dan McRay.
April Chisholm
August 6, 2007
Dad,
Today I got a tattoo in your memory. It's a beautiful cross with angel wings and "McRay" written across it. I think you may have actually liked this one, even though you always told us kids not to get them. I miss you very much! Savannah and Caleb are getting so big. Savannah asked me the other day who her guardian angel was. Don't know where she got that from, totally random, but I assured her it was you! I told her where ever she goes, you are there with her. Travis and Caleb and I went to the cemetery again on Sunday. Butch left you a very nice card. Everyone misses you so much. It's still so hard to believe you are gone. Miss you and love you, Dad...
vickie mcray
July 22, 2007
Honeybun,
The boys and some of your closest friends fished the PocoBueno in Port O'Connor. (the tournament you always wanted to fish) We all drove down Saturday for the weigh in. Even though not one boat caught a legal marland, including the Thunder, it was a very joyous occasion. The minute the boat was docked everyone on the boat said they knew you were there with them. We place a reef in you memory on the boat. We all know you enjoyed the fishing as much as everyone else. These are the times I miss you more than ever. You are always in our thoughts and in our hearts. Love you always.
Hope the fish are biting up in heaven.
We miss YOU!!!
April Chisholm
July 21, 2007
Just thinking about you, Dad. Love you!
~April
Kathy Hilburn
July 20, 2007
Dan the Man!
Wow, what a great legacy you left!
You have the strongest family I have ever known. And it's because of your faith and strong personality, they are going to grow and prosper. I know you wouldn't take all the credit, you would make sure everyone knew Vic, had a lot to do with it also. Well, you're right, she is really strong, but if you have any clout, (which I'm sure you do), could you ask God to send a few more angels to surrond her, somedays, she just needs a lttle extra peace to help her get through. Your children are awesome, and your grandchildren are just beautiful. I'm not sure if you get internet service up there, but just in case, I wantted to say Thank you for being a crazy friend. The little time we shared, was nice, and I'll always remember them. You are missed and but not forgotten.
Love,
Kathy Hilburn
vickie mcray
July 19, 2007
Honeybun,
It has been a year since you have been gone, and sometimes it seems like things will never get better. But, we know in our hearts that the strengths you gave us will lead us to the salvation that you have found. We all miss you and love you with all our hearts. Gone but not forgotten.
I will love you always.
April Chisholm
July 18, 2007
Dear Dad,
Well...it was one year ago today that you were taken from us to live eternally in Heaven. It's so hard to believe it has already been a year and crazy to think of all that has changed in only a year. I don't want to be sad today or look at July 18th as a horrible day or "doomsday". I've realized that your time spent here, although too short, was as it should have been. I don't think we get to decide when we leave this earth, but God decides when our work here is complete and it's time for us to come home to him. I want to look at today as the day you got to go home to God. A place where there is no suffering, no pain, no mean and hateful people, no negativity, no sadness. You are in the greatest place there is to be! A place that every one of us here prays we will be spending our eternal lives. There are so many things I have learned through your death, dad. The most important thing of all is that life is too short to not appreciate all the good things we have while here on this earth. With all the bad we see and feel, sometimes it's hard to look past that and truly appreciate the wonderful things God has given us. I am so thankful that I had you as my dad, I will treasure every memory we shared together. I wish we could have had more time together, and that my daughter could have had more time with you and that my son would have known you, but your spirit will live on through those that knew you. My children will know you through all the great stories I will share with them about you. They do after all share your blood, and believe me, I see you in them both each and every day!! I miss you so much dad. I know one day we will see each other again, and that makes me happy. All of your friends and family miss you SO much! I'm sure you are looking down at all of us saying, "What's with all the sad faces, I'm having a great time!" I love you dad and I miss you.
Love Always,
Your Daughter
July 17, 2007
Sterling & Mona Frymire
July 6, 2007
Dearest Dan,
This year would of been so special for us. I could only imagine us celebrating turning 50 together. From the moment we met we hit it off. You are the greatest, funniest and most honest person I have ever known. I wish that we could have one more laugh together, I wish that you and Vicki could have one more kiss and that your children and grandchildren could have one more hug. I know that you are watching us and telling us to "Enjoy life, I'm okay, Don't worry about me". Your family and friends miss you terribly. Mona misses your prank phone calls, your sense of humor and that laugh. You are loved and I missed calling you on your birthday and then you calling me. Happy 50th Daniel. WE LOVE YOU.
vickie mcray
July 6, 2007
Honeybun,
Yesterday was you're 50th birthday. We went to the cementary for a birthday celebration. (Dustin is having such a hard time, please guide him through this.) We placed ballons and a retired fishing reel of yours on the grave site. I was so hoping your headstone would be ready but due to all the rain they can not pour the foundation. I know that it will be in place soon and that's all that matters. Your dad and Ms. Kay had been to the cementary before us and placed a beautiful vase of sunflowers on your grave. We all miss you and wish your were here to celebrate, but we know you are in spirit and are looking after us. Be at peace my love. I will miss you always.
Happy Birthday in heaven.
April Chisholm
July 5, 2007
Dear Dad,
Today would be your 50th birthday! Hard to believe that on this day last year, we were celebrating your 49th, eating cake, and watching you open gifts. I will be headed back to the cemetery to pay my respects. This is a birthday that we SHOULD be celebrating, Dad. I'm so sorry that you were taken away, but at the same time, I know that where you are there is no such thing as age, and you would not want us to cry or be sad. It's just that this is such a huge birthday for you. Your 50th is supposed to be a BIG party and you laughing and having fun and dancing and telling stories. We WILL celebrate your birthday today, Dad. We will celebrate your life and all the good times. We will be reminded just how precious and short life is, and think of all that your death has taught us. As a matter of fact, last Friday night, Travis, my best friend Danielle, and I were driving home from a club. It was about 2:40 a.m. and we were on 45 headed north. We were very close to the Dixie Farm exit when we noticed an 18 wheeler, a motorcycle and a few cars pulled over to the shoulder. Then we saw the car directly in front of us hit something. I was the one driving that night and slowed down b/c whatever they hit was in our lane and I couldn't get over. I came up on it and swerved when we realized what it was...a guy! He was laying in the middle of the freeway, covered in blood, and his right leg was laying next to him. He had on a white shirt and khaki shorts and had blonde hair. It was by the grace of God that I missed hitting him by mere inches. Although he was already dead, I still could not have lived with myself had I hit him. We found out on Monday, that his name was Brent. He was only 30 years old and had been riding home in the back of a pick up and fell out. When he fell out, an 18 wheeler hit him, then a motorcycle, then the car directly in front of us. I really think you were looking out for me that night, and prevented me from hitting him. I've had nightmares about this poor guy ever since it happened. Once again, I was shown how precious and short life truly is. I didn't know him, but after what I saw, he was all I could think about. I know that he is now up in Heaven with you. At least that brings some relief after witnessing the horrific and gruesome death this poor guy had to go through. I wish you were here to talk to me about all of this, but like I said before, you are in the best place there is to be, and now Brent is there, too. I love you with all my heart, Dad! Happy 50th in Heaven. All my love, Your Daughter
Gary Cudworth
July 4, 2007
Well Vick, we have been without Danny for almost a year now and I indeed miss my friend of so many years. Jean and I pray that all is well with you and remember that we are here for you if you just need to talk or get away for a while Love ya Gary (DOC)
vickie mcray
July 3, 2007
July 3, 2007
Dan,
Here it is two days before your 50th birthday. I stiil can't believe you are gone. I just got back from a trip to the Bahamas - Liz & Kenny Ross were great hosts. We thought about you many times and remembered some of the things you would say and do that always made us laugh. The boys, Jerry, Foot, and some others will be fishing the PocoBueno in you memory. Wouldn't it be great if they won. Missing you always.
Love always
vickie
April Chisholm
June 25, 2007
Dear Dad,
It was our first Father's Day without you. It was a hard day but a day in remeberance of you! I went to your grave and left flowers and a card. I also wrote on some balloons and let them fly in to the sky. We watched them for as long as we could see them, which was actually a pretty long time. I hope they reached you in Heaven and you got the messages I wrote on them for you. I love you, Dad. I miss you and think about you all the time. Love, April
April Chisholm
May 28, 2007
Hi Dad,
I've been thinking about you a lot lately. Once again everything in my life is changing. It's so ironic considering how much I dislike change and all. The kids and I are doing fine, just busy. I've been going to church and the sermon last week was all about the need for a dad! It made me realize just how much I missed you. It also feels weird with Father's Day and your birthday coming up, and the dreadful one year anniversary of your death. I know you are in the greatest place there is, but I'm with Vickie on wishing you were here with us. I miss your words of wisdom and your funny stories. I still have your phone number programmed in my phone and still call every now and then thinking you will answer and talk to me. I wish we could just go to lunch like we used to and sit and talk looking over the water. Life is so hard and most of the time I don't know if I'm doing the right thing or not. All I can do is keep trying and keep going on and hope everthing works out. I love you dad. I miss you and hope you are having the best time partying with God!! I can't wait to be up there with you someday. Love you!! Your Daughter
vickie mcray
May 25, 2007
May 24, 2007
Dan,
How I miss you. Mothers Day and our Anniversary have come and gone. I seem to do well at the time then fall apart later. I went to Corpus this week to find Dustin a place to live. You will never believe the name of his new street, "thunder", we decided it was a sign considering the boat's name is "thunder" also. The boys went on a fishing trip to Cabo I think everything went well. I know they have a hard time without you being there, but they say you are always there with them in spirit. I am so lonsome without you. How I miss you making me laugh. I know you are in a better place but I sure wish you were here. I know that sounds so selfish, but god how I miss you. Love you always and you will always be in my thoughts.
Vickie
vickie mcray
April 15, 2007
Honeybun,
Nedded someone to talk to wish you were here, but I know you are listening so here goes. I ordered the family headstone and your footstone. It took me awhile because I wanted it to be something special. I think even you will be impressed. Matt wrote the peom and the rest of the family helped with the design. The stone has to come from China hope it is all ready for your 5oth birthday.
I just finished a class at MD Anderson - spouses who have lost spouses to cancer. It really made me appreciate you even more than I already did. I have also stared counting my blessings like we use to every day - I had kind of lost faith after I lost you. I have been blesed with 30 years of marriage to you and the greatest joy is the children we had. Now they are having their own families and I guess we did a few things right - they have grown into decent adults. Wish you were here to share in all of our lives but we all know you are watching and smiling from heaven. Make a home for us and we will see you when it is our time.
I heard a saying the other days and it reminds me so much of you - Life is not how you died it was how you lived it - I don't think anyone enjoyed life more than you.
McRay Crane (our legacy) is doing wonderful. When we hit a stumbling block we all take a second and ask you what we should do. I sure hope you are giving us the right answers, but you taught us well.
The kids are doing fine. April is having a few problems but I think this time she is going to be fine. Matt has been doing a TV show about a house he is flipping. We are all waiting on Hollywood to call. I am sure that wait will be long. It has been fun. Jonathan & Stacy's house is coming along. Dustin is doing well in school. He wants to go to Costa Rica for his spanish classes. We are still discussing if he should wait until next summer. Of course I am discussing I think he has already made up his own mind - Can you believe that!
I love you always and you will always be in my heart. God Bless
(Thanks for listening)
Love always
your wife
April Chisholm
March 16, 2007
Dear Dad,
Gosh I wish you were here. I need you so badly. Everything in my life is turned upside down. Had an emergency surgery a few weeks ago. Was internally bleeding, thought for a moment that I would be joining you! They almost lost me and I was ready to go and be with you. Guess God decided it wasn't my time, still have two angels here to raise. Travis left us. My heart is so broken, I truly loved him so much. Wish you were here to tell me everythings going to be okay. I am so grateful to Vickie for being there through all this. I know how she must miss you, we all do. I can imagine how wonderful Heaven must be. You went way too soon, but you are definitely in the greatest place there is to be. Life on this earth is HELL! I know God is testing me right now, but I just don't know much more I can handle. I'm scared of being a single mom. I know if you were here, you would tell me to have more faith in myself. I mean after all, I am a McRay, and I am tough. I will do my best raising these kids by myself. I would want you to be proud of me. I love you and miss you, dad. All my love, April
vickie mcray
February 10, 2007
February 10, 2007
Honeybun,
Well all the little guys are one year older, Dustin - 19, Caleb - 2, & Andrew - 1 our January crew. We sure miss you being here to celebrate their birthdays. That Andrew is so much like Matt when he was little - he is such a delight for me. Jonathan and Stacy will start building on their house as soon as it dries up some. Wish you were here so I could talk to you about all the stuff that's going. I just stop and try to think what you would say and hope I make the right decision. Love you always and miss you more than ever.
Love
your wife
April Chisholm
January 22, 2007
January 22,2007
Dear Dad,
Today is Caleb's 2nd birthday. This time last year you were bringing over his first "big wheel" to ride on. That is still his favorite toy. Yesterday,I was sitting at a stop light and a custom chopper pulled up beside me, for a split second I could see you sitting on it. It's weird how the mind can see things like that. I miss you. Savannah and Caleb are both getting so big. It breaks my heart that you are not here to see them grow up. Caleb has your eyes, the one thing on him that is truly MCRAY! He is a handful but I wouldn't trade him for anything. You would get a big kick out of him. Savannah is so smart. She asks about you often, reminds me that you are "watching" us from Heaven. She will be the only grandchild that knew you and it will up to her to tell the others all about you! Believe me when I say she is quite the story teller. Gee, wonder where she got that from?? I love you, dad. Love always, Your Daughter
Cindy Russell
January 16, 2007
When I'm on the road and pass a McRay Crane rig, it makes me smile. Dan's departure made me realize something, don't put off picking up the phone & calling your friends & letting them know your thinking about them when you are. I decided to pick up the phone and called Dan the Friday AFTER his death. I will always wish I would have made that call sooner. Dan, I always thought you were the greatest.
Gary Cudworth
January 15, 2007
I missed calling the ranch during hunting season and hearing Dannys laugh and invite to come on down. I shall always miss my bud of so many years.
Picayune, MS
vickie mcray
January 14, 2007
january 14, 2007
Danny, Dan, Daniel
Remember how we laughed about you changing your name every ten years. Only you! We made it through the holidays. How I missed you Christmas Eve picking up all the trash and telling every
body to pick up their stuff before it got thrown away. We went to the ranch Christmas Day after visiting at the cemetary. It is so lomesome without you there but,it is so strange I feel peaceful there. It is the beginning of a new year my life without you. I have so many mixed feelings and emotions but I always know you are looking after me and leading me in the right direction. You are forever in my heart and I will always love you.
April Chisholm
December 8, 2006
Dear Dad,
Things are very hectic right now. The holidays are right around the corner and instead of enjoying it all, I feel very sad. I know how you loved Christmas and how your eyes lit up as you watched the kids open the presents you and nana had gotten them. It just won't be the same this year. I'm working on a scrapbook of you. It feels good to look at all the pictures and think of all the fun we used to have. I found some pictures of when we all went to Crested Butte. That was so much fun. Saw a commercial the other day for the Disney Cruise. It made me cry, I remember how you had promised Savannah to take her on that cruise. I'm so sorry you never got that chance. I would give anything to hear one of your crazy and funny stories or take just one last ride on the back of your motorcycle with you. If only I could hear you say "sis" just one more time. I love you, dad, and I always will. Love, April
vickie mcray
December 2, 2006
December 03, 2006
Hey Honey,
Well here it is almost Christmas and I can't stand the thought of you not being here to celebrate our favoite time of the year. The grandkids are all getting so big. Andrew is trying to walk. You would be so proud. Dustin & I visited at the cemetary, Thanksgiving Day. I am sure you laughed as much as we did when the goats were roaming the grounds and the Webster Police trying to decide what to do. That Dustin is so grown and how he misses you. He is finishing this semester and moving into a house with a college freind. He is already talking about getting his masters. O boy!!! Matt & Jona handle you death in their own way - I just wish they would have all had a little more time with you. However, they had one of the best dads ever and they have great memories. April is like me, she writes to you to relief some of the stress. I try to remember all the things you have tought me through the years about business and people in general. Only now do I realize how troubled you must have been at times. I keep my head up and think of you every day. Be Proud, and be at peace.
Love always
Vickie
Stacy McRay
November 10, 2006
Well, it's been 4 months since you left us and you have no idea just how much we all miss you. Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away and before we know it Christmas will be here. I can't imagine what the holidays are going to be like without you. I know things just won't be the same. You won't be here to rush out on Thanksgiving day to go to the ranch or watch us separate everyone's gifts in the living room on Christmas Eve. But, you are always on my mind and in my heart. I love you and miss you!
Stella -- Stella the bean
vickie mcray
October 2, 2006
October 2, 2006
Hey Honey,
I made it through my birthday without you being here. God it was bad. You are always in my thoughts. Love you forever.
Savannah & Caleb
September 30, 2006
Dear Pa,
We miss you so much! You are the best grandpa ever and we love you! Love,
Savannah & Caleb
vickie mcray
September 6, 2006
September 6, 2006
Honeybun,
God how I miss you. I keep expecting you to walk in the door at any time. I think of you every day and the time we had together. I will love you always and keep you in my heart.
Love always
your wife
April
August 29, 2006
Dear Dad,
Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and miss you. I'll hear a song on the radio, or see something that reminds me of you. I have a picture of you walking me down the aisle to Travis that I keep on my desk in my classroom. My only regret is that I'm sure I never told you near enough how much I love you or what you mean to me. I may have only gotten to spend 32 years knowing you, but you taught me a lot in those 32 years, more than you will ever know. I love you dad, and I miss you.
Dwayne & Pam Ducharme
August 21, 2006
He is a friend that we will miss greatly. Never was there a man who had so much and gave more then he had, be it time, love, money or himself. He was a true friend!
William Kelly
August 20, 2006
When Ma and Pa Johnston lived on Bonner, our back yards shared a fence (Glenview) I still have 8mm shots of Dan, Tommy and John coming over the fence to play with Chris and Ann...priceless! I guess my last visit with Dan was at Pat Davis' Memorial..prior to that, we went out Deep Sea 100 miles on the Predator, and did very well. Dan was thrilled that I presented him with Pa Johnston's big calcutta rig I had borrowed 40 years ago, and he would not take back. His remarks were, of course, "who says Bill Kelly never returns things!" What a guy....he will be sorely missed...God Bless you, Vicki, and please let us know if there is anything we can do to ease your pain. We will miss him, and pray for him. Aunt Connie & Uncle Bill
Cheryl Bouillion
August 20, 2006
My deepest sympathy to your family. I didn't know him well, but he seemed like such a great guy, always with a big smile on his face. I know he loved his family a great deal and seemed especially proud of his kids...you could tell by the way he went to every Twenty After gig.
I'm sure his love will surround you all forever.
Margie & Ed Holt
August 18, 2006
Dan's life touched everyone he was around. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten. We are here for you always.
Sharla Cudworth Dowling
July 28, 2006
Vickie,
My Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family through this difficult time. Danny was a sweetheart and will forever be missed. My Heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. Love ya.
Calvin Gene Jones
July 28, 2006
I still don't know how to put the right words together to explain how much I hurt for your loss. While time and circumstances seemed to have put some distance between us, I will always have fond memories of the time we did get to spend together. Vickie, & family, IF YOU EVER NEED ME, I'M A PHONE CALL AWAY!
April McRay-Chisholm
July 26, 2006
To everyone who knew my dad...
Thank you for your prayers, thank you for your thoughts.
Thank you for the many blessings you have bestowed upon our family.
Thank you for all the kind words, thank you for everything.
Most of all, thank you for keeping the memory of my dad alive forever.
Gary Cudworth
July 26, 2006
Vickie,
Danny was indeed a very special person and friend to me. There will always be an empty place in my heart that no other will ever be able to enter into. I loved him like a brother and will miss him terribly. Jean and I will remember him always and the great times we all shared. He was a blessing and a joy to us and so many others. We love you and remember that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Gary and Jean Cudworth
Don Bramlett
July 25, 2006
My prayers are with the entire McRay family. His passing brings a sadness to all who knew him. What a great man. I am a better husband, father, friend and employee because of my dear friend, Dan McRay. Thanks Dan for being so real.
Cindy Russell
July 24, 2006
Dan was such a special person, he always made me laugh & kept me on my toes. I will miss him, there will never be another like him. My prayers are with Vicki, the boys & April. Thanks, April, for calling me this morning & letting me know.
Sandy Zuckero
July 22, 2006
McRay family...I was so sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. McRay. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Sandy Zuckero (Thoracic Center)
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