Lester A "Bud" Gray

Lester “Bud” Gray, 88, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, December 4, 2022, after a long battle with cancer.

He was born May 22, 1934, in Marysville, MI, the eldest son of John and Lida Gray. He married Barbara Ann Bates on April 28, 1962, in Port Huron. The two were each other’s lifetime companions and friends.

Bud graduated from Marysville High School in 1952. He was drafted to the United States Army and served from 1957-1959. He was extremely proud of his service and enjoyed talking about his time stationed in Lebanon and Germany building roads.

Bud worked at Prestolite for 29 years before downsizing eliminated his job. Afterward, he worked at Mueller Brass Co in Port Huron before moving to afternoon supervisor at Mueller Impact in Marysville. Bud was known for his strong work ethic and leadership skills. He retired in 2000.

Bud’s mechanical, carpentry, and troubleshooting skills were legendary. Whenever something needed to be fixed, Bud was the first person family and friends called. His advice and guidance always provided successful results. Bud built the home he raised his family in from the ground up and lived there until his death.

Bud is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barb; daughters Linda (Pat) McGrath, Julie (Mark) VanBuskirk, and Lisa (Paul) Steinborn; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Also surviving is a brother, Charles Gray, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter, sister Jacqueline Burke, and brothers Robert Gray and Phillip Gray.

Visitation will be Friday, December 9, 2022, from 4-8 p.m. at Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Saturday, December 10, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church, with interment at Mount Hope Cemetery following. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Blue Water Hospice, and Holy Trinity Parish.