Robert A. Gray passed away peacefully November 22, 2018 at the age of 85. He was born February 3, 1933 and spent the first years of his life in the Norwalk Children's Home. As a young boy, the Peck Family brought him to live on their family farm in New London. Bob was raised by his foster parents Elbert and Marjorie (Peck) French. He attended New London High School and graduated with the class of 1953. Bob took great pride in being a member of New London's State Championship Football Team. After graduation, Bob joined the Army serving as a tank commander.
Robert married his high school sweetheart Roberta Earl in 1955. Together they raised their three children on the family farm (Grayland Farms) in North Fairfield and have passed that legacy to their children. Robert was an active member of the Huron County Soil and Water Conservation (over 20 years), a member and former deacon of the Fitchville United Methodist Church, and he was a Boy Scout leader.
Bob enjoyed sports of all kinds. He played semi-pro hockey after high school. He was an avid golfer playing in leagues for many years at Millstone Hills in New London and taking annual trips south with his golf buddies. Bob was a skilled carpenter and woodworker. He handcrafted much of the furniture in their home as well as the homes of their children. Bob also enjoyed attending the sporting events and activities of his children and many grandchildren. Bob thoroughly enjoyed traveling in his motorhome to Florida each winter as well as trips to Alaska, Arizona, and many other places of interest.
Robert is survived sons, Steve (Shirley) Gray and Kevin (Kelly) Gray both of North Fairfield, and daughter, Kathy (Bob) Day of Castalia. Sister in laws - Edna Smith, Elsie Righter, Betty Schreck, and Irene (Joe) Merrilees, Brother-in-law Bobby (Judy) Earl. He is also survived by grandchildren Katrina(Heath) Hamilton, Kristi Day, Kari(Isaac) Bernard, Kelsey(Artie) Maines, Bobby (Melissa) Day, Tony (Dana) Day, Eric (Ashley) Gray, Spencer (Chelsea) Gray, Chandler, Parker, and Keragin Gray. Robert is also survived by 14 Great Grandchildren, along with multiple nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife and foster parents, brother-in-laws, Lyle Smith, Rod Righter and Larry Schreck preceded Robert in death.
Those wishing to contribute to Robert's memory may do so to Fitchville United Methodist Church Memorial Fund. Secor Funeral Home in Willard assisted the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.secofuneralhomes.com