Services for Zane E. Gray
Zane E. Gray, 89, of Sun City Center, Fla passed away October 19, 2015. Gray was born in Larimore, North Dakota and a longtime resident of Grand Forks, North Dakota. He was a proud Fighting Sioux alumnus of the University of North Dakota, where he met his beloved wife of 52 years Joanne (Klick). Gray attended Juilliard School of Music in New York City and was proud to have sung at Carnegie Hall. He served in the United States Army during World War II and was stationed in the Philippines when honorably discharged. He dedicated his career to education and led band and vocal programs in McIntosh, Biwabik and Cloquet, Minnesota, retiring after more than 28 years of teaching. As a student favorite, Gray influenced many lives and enjoyed directing concert, jazz, marching, and pep bands. He encouraged students, regardless of their ability, to participate in the various music programs available to them. Following retirement Gray was a Choir Director in Haines City and Sun City Center. He was a much sought after vocalist, performing for many weddings and funerals, known especially for his rendition of “The Lord’s Prayer.” Gray was an avid card player and attained the rank of duplicate bridge Life Master.
Surviving family includes his six sons, Kevin Z. Gray, Mark E. (Florence) Gray, Collin M. (Erin) Gray, Barton W. Gray, Jeffrey C. (Marci) Gray, Corey S. (Kathy) Gray, 15 grandchildren, Kierney Z. and Addison H. Gray, Sarah and Tyler Gray, Cameron, Connor and Lauren Gray, Hona, Maddie and Cooper Gray, Patrick (Danielle) Duffy, Steven Duffy and Austin Z. Gray, Evan and Ryan Gray, three great grandchildren, Juliana, Malayna and Alexandra Duffy, three sisters-in-law, Lois Gray, Gundy Gray and Barbara Klick, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joanne, who shared his love for music, friends and family, brothers Garnett, Cameron (Marian), and Forrest and sisters Beverly, and Marjory (Gordon) and brother-in-law Donald Klick.
Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Friday, October 23, 2015, at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1210 Del Webb Boulevard West, Sun City Center, Fla. Interment with Military Honors will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Bloomington, MN, at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Cloquet Educational Foundation.
Arrangements by Sun City Center Funeral Home (813) 634-9900.
