John T. Gray, 88, of Ashkum, passed away on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at his home. He was born on June 6, 1935, in Ashkum, the son of Frank and Rose (Weber) Gray. He married Norma Jean (Bobbie) Hansen in Ashkum on April 16, 1955.
Surviving are his wife, Bobbie Gray of Ashkum; one daughter, Jackie Havener of Kankakee; two sons, John (Jennifer) Gray of Ashkum; and James (Stephanie) Gray of Barrington; seven grandchildren, Brent (Marcia) Havener, Tyler (Kristi) Havener, Dane (Kendi) Havener, Ellie Gray, Emma (Collin) Steele, Olivia Gray, and Oliver Gray; seven great grandchildren; and two sisters, Shirley Wulff of Manteno and Rita (Leo) Weller of Cullom.
He was preceded in passing by his parents; three brothers, Paul, Robert, and Vincent Gray; and one son in law, Vernon Havener.
Mr. Gray was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. John was an outstanding athlete and along with his teammates, from the Central High School 1952-53 Boy’s basketball team, was selected for induction into the Central Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a general contractor and farmer and along with his brother, Robert, owned and operated Gray’s Material Service and Gray Farms. In addition, John was an avid real estate investor.
Visitation will be from 8:30-9:30 am on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton.
Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00 am at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. Fr. Doug Hauber will officiate. Burial will follow at Ashkum Catholic Cemetery in Ashkum.
Memorials may be made to the Masses or Donor’s Choice.
Please share a memory of John at knappfuneralhomes.com.
