Donald A. Gray

It is with great sadness and much love that the family announce the passing of Donald A. Gray, age 87, of Elk Point, South Dakota. Don passed away peacefully at home on August 17, 2025, surrounded by his devoted wife and all five of his children.

Don was born on October 6,1937 to Kenneth and Katie (Nelson) Gray in Sioux City, IA. He grew up in Elk Point, where he attended Elk Point Elementary and High School. He went on to earn an Applied Science degree from the University of South Dakota. After proudly serving in the U.S. Army, Don began a long and dedicated 39-year career at Prince Manufacturing. His work ethic and steady leadership left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the company.

On August 30, 1969, Don married the love of his life, Dianne (Brown) Gray. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and laughter, raising five children: Kenneth (Susan) Gray of Wichita, KS; David (Angela) Gray of Johnston, IA; Daniel (Tina) Gray of Sioux City, IA; Alan (Ruby) Gray of Ankeny, IA; and Debra (Corey) Brasel of Manhattan, KS.

He was a loving grandfather to Joseph Gray, Isaac Gray, Lyss Gray, Noah Gray, Everett Brasel, Isabel Morales, and Gabe Morales, all of whom brought him tremendous joy.

Don had a deep passion for life. He loved drag racing, traveling, and never passed up an ice-cold Diet Coke. He was known for his meticulous planning, unwavering loyalty, and kind heart. A praying man, he found strength in his faith. He was a devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk Point, where he served faithfully over the years.

In the community, Don supported the Boy Scouts, helping his sons Daniel and Alan earn Eagle Scout honors. He served on the REC Board, was Parade Manager for the 2009 Elk Point Sesquicentennial Celebration, and helped organize the Elk Point Music Fest to raise scholarship funds.

Don was a longtime member of the Masons with the honor of serving as the Grand Master of Masons in South Dakota from June 2015 to June 2016.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Dianne, his children, grandchildren, his brother Robert, nieces, nephews, and many of his treasured friends.

Don was preceded in death by parents Kenneth and Katie Gray.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, August 22, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk Point with Fr. Joe Vogel officiating. Burial will take place at the Elk Point St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., on Thursday, August 21, with the prayer service at 6 p.m., all at the church. A Masonic service will be held at Kober Funeral Home on Thursday, August 21 at 3 p.m.