John L. (Rip) Gray passed away from complications following lung surgery on January 19, 2004 in Kamloops. Rip was born on April 1, 1930 in Islay, Alberta.
Rip will be sadly missed by his loving partner of 15 years Gwen; sons Phil (Tina), Grant (Frances) and daughters Evelyn (Greg) Meredith-Jones, Kathy (Moses) Paulos, Geraldine (Todd) Russell and their mother Phyllis. He is also remembered by grandchildren Gary (Diana) Gray, Leann Gray, John Gray, Brad (Kim) Lesiuk, Dawn (Shawn) Fox, Cheryl (Branko) Gray, Robert (Crystal) Gray, Curtis Gray, Erica (Ed) Gray, Tereza Paulos, Shanna Paulos, Ken McLean, Will Russell and Alex Russell and three great grandchildren Austin, Dayton and Kiarra; his sisters Bertha (Don) Duncan, Ruth Davey, Evelyn (Jim) Oliver and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, two sisters and two brothers.
Rip came to BC in 1948, and worked at various ranches in the Ashcroft, Kamloops and Merritt area, the last 20 years of his cowboy career were at Mamette Lake. He loved baseball and hoped this would finally be the year for the Cubbies. He was a gentle caring man (with a “Stubborn Streak!”), who created loving memories for his children and grandchildren. Rip touched many hearts throughout his life and will be missed by all who knew him.
Special thanks to the Logan Lake Health Centre doctors and nurses, Dr. D. Kincade and especially the nurses in the RIH ICU, who provided the utmost care in his final few days.
A Celebration of the Life of this special man was held on Friday, January 23, 2004 at the Forster’s Convention Centre in Kamloops.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cowboy Benefit Fund, Canadian Pro Rodeo Association. #233-2116 27th Avenue, NE Calgary, Alberta T2E 7A6 or to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Schoening Funeral Service, 374-1454.
Hang up your saddle, turn out your horse and call it a day; Rest well, dear Rip