David R Gray

March 5th, 1945 to March 13th, 2012
David R. “Groovy” Gray, 67 of Fort Gratiot, pulled up his tracks to a higher place on the morning of Tuesday, March 13th suddenly, but peacefully at his home.

David’s journey began on earth March 5th 1945 in Martinsburg West Virginia to the (late) Ray and Irene Gray. His childhood home was lived in Berkeley Springs, WV. Following high school, David enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served on the U.S.S. Hammerberg. He was also a naval boxer. He forged a friendship with a Michigan shipmate who introduced him to the beautiful water wonderland of Michigan. In 1967, when he was discharged, he established residency in Port Huron. Water was one of his loves.

Amongst several constructions jobs, David sought employment with the Grand Trunk Railroad, where he was a conductor for over 25 years. (Trains were another one of his loves).

In September of 1973, he was married to late Shelia Catherine Gates, of Brigden Ontario. On September 19th 2005 , he was united in marriage to Rene S. Ruzinsky of Yale, Michigan.

Groovy-boisterous, cantankerous, spontaneous, giving, loving, flavorful, a comedian, always ready to party, always willing to help. Groovy is one of those shy guys that you just will never forget. Often imitated, never duplicated.

David is survived by his wife, Rene Gray; his children Shannon Gray (former son-in-law, David Boughner), Erica (Jon) Camm, Rebecca (Matthew) Zeller; his grandchildren, Keith, Mallory, Christopher, Matthew, Emilee, Kayla, Seth, Liliana, Ethan; his mother, Irene A. Gray; Sister IdaJean Lewis. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, in-laws/out-laws and oh, so many friends and a few enemies.

Funeral services for David R. “Groovy” Gray will be held at 11am Saturday, March 17th at St. Stephen's/Holy Trinity Catholic Church. The Rev. Frederick A. Bodde will officiate. Military honors will be conducted under auspices of the St. Clair County Allied Veterans Council. Visitation will take place on Friday, March 16th from 2-9pm at the Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home.

Memorials may be directed to the wishes of the family.

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