Delphus Joseph Gray Obituary
With heavy hearts we say good bye to our beloved Delphus (Buck) Gray Sr. Dad took his final breath with mom by his side in the early morning of September 29, 2022.
Del was born in Belledune, New Brunswick June 30, 1943. He is predeceased by his sister Patsy, brothers Leonard, Eldon, Billy and Gary and both parents, Julianne and William Gray.
Del is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol, daughter Lorna Antilla (Dan), sons Del Jr (Sheri), Joseph, (Dana) and Jason, 8 grandchildren, plus 6 great grandchildren, siblings Wally (Lou), Irma (Lawrency), Jean, Marie, Donny (Muriel), Jimmy (Carole) Danny (Debbie) Carol (Bobby) Carmen, Donna (Cecile), Joanne (Daniel) Statia plus numerous relatives coast to coast.
He moved to Beardmore in 1963 where he met the love of his life Carol. They married September 18, 1965. They moved to Thunder Bay in 1966 where he took a job with Great Lakes, working in numerous bush camps. In 1976 he took a job at the Great Lakes Paper Mill (Resolute) until his retirement in 2003.
Dad enjoyed the challenge of hard work, even on his days off his garage was his favourite pass time. A, can of body filler, some paint, a case of good beer and good company got the jobs done! On the rare, occasion he didn't have a job to do, he would hang out in his garage where there was always an open, invitation for neighbours to join in for a beer and chat. Dad was meticulous about organizing, every, tool had it's place and you got to know it real quick!! When we kids were in there we could be sure to get a story from his past, and a good explanation of the proper names of the tools and how they worked, followed by a test to see if we were paying attention.
Dad really loved his country music, the old time stuff, like Smiley Bates, Hank Snow, George Jones, Hank Williams Sr and so many others from the 50's and 60's, when they made "real music" as he would, put it. He loved to pull out his guitar and play and sing, especially on holidays or family get togethers.
Dad loved to dance, but only after a few good beers! Then he would rip it up with whoever was on the floor. He took pride in giving people a reason to laugh.
Dad also loved to fish and hunt, moose, partridge and the odd rabbit were always on the menu in season. In the 70's Dad joined the Westfort Fish Club with his brothers -in- law Bill and Leo Elliott and, father- in- law Joe Elliott Sr, plus he loved to participate in fish derbies with his son Del Jr. Dad joined a, 10 pin bowl league with his brother in law Emile Brizard and there was always a competition to see, who would bowl the perfect game. Dad truly enjoyed spending time with his family, always talked, about how much he missed being "down home" in New Brunswick with his brothers and sisters...But, the thing dad enjoyed most was spending time at home with mom, strumming on the old guitar. These, past few years dad was content to sit in his favourite chair with Beazer (senegal parrot) resting on his head while watching old westerns, Family Feud or true crime stories with mom.
Dad taught us all the values of life, to work hard for what we want, that life is what we make it, and he, lived what he taught. The important things in life can't be bought. He was humble, he was kind, he was, bold and he was quiet. With dad it was always what you see is what you get, no nonsense kinda guy, man of few words, straight shooter and skip the small talk. Dad, we miss you already and will love you, always.
Special thanks to Dr George and Dr Brown and the ICU team, you were amazing with dad's care and, with all family interactions. We were so blessed by your understanding, empathy and the care you gave, dad during his last days. From all the family. Thank you so much.
Funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 8 2022 at Holy Family Church with Father Jerin Louis, presiding. Service will start at 11:30 and lunch will follow in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital or charity of your choice would be, greatly appreciated.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.
Funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 8, 2022 at Holy Family Church with Father Jerin Louis presiding. Service will start at 11:30 and lunch will follow in the church hall.
