Kenneth A. Gray

Kenneth Allen Gray, known to his loved ones as Ken, passed away on September 3, 2023, at the age of 57 in Woodstock, Illinois. Born on April 11, 1966, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to his loving parents Darlene and Dennis Gray. Ken was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ken was a man of many talents and interests. He had a keen intellect and a passion for the arts, particularly drawing, jewelry making, and intricate coloring. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to make others laugh with his jokes. Ken was known for his kindness, modesty, and integrity. He was a loyal and caring individual who always put his family first. His wife and daughters meant the world to him.

In terms of education, Ken graduated from Woodstock High School in 1984. He furthered his studies at McHenry County College, College of Lake County, and the University of Florida.

Throughout his career, Ken held various positions, including Press Operator at DB Hess and Press Operator at Printpack Food Packaging Industry. Later, he became a Radiologic Technologist and Computed Tomography (CT) Scan Technologist at Centegra Health System. Ken was dedicated to his work and always strived for excellence.

Ken found solace and community at the Lutheran Church, where he worshipped.

Outside of his professional life, Ken had a wide range of hobbies. He enjoyed cooking, creating silver jewelry, birdwatching, traveling, and hunting for rocks and beach glass. He also had a passion for coaching his daughters in soccer and solving crossword puzzles. Animals held a special place in Ken's heart, and he loved visiting animal parks, zoos, and observing them in the wild.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Rodi Ann Smith; his daughters, Amanda Gray (fiancé Matt Schmarje) and Courtney (Drew) Hudkins; his mother, Darlene Van Deusen, and stepfather, Thomas Van Deusen; his sister, Darla (Vern) Guttman; his sister, Jodi Gray (fiancé Paul Wuest); his nephews, Chachi Sharp & nephew & godson Patrick Gray, nephew & godson Tyler Harris (fiance Kendra Mantik), and Brody Gray (partner Luke Nowakowski); Ken was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Gray, his brother, Jerome Gray, and his grandparents.

Ken's memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and unwavering love for his family. May he rest in peace.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Service for Ken on September 20, 2023, at Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Avenue, Woodstock from 12:00 – 2:00 pm. Following the memorial, there will be a gathering at Ortmann's Tavern in the Garden patio outside, as well as some tables indoors, where food and dessert will be served. Drinks will be available for purchase.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to assist with funeral and medical expenses.

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