Robert K. "Bert" Gray
December 22, 2022

Bert was born in Stanley, WI to Frances Knight Gray and Robert P. Gray. He is survived by his wife,
Kathleen Merner, sons Thomas and Peter, granddaughters Sloan and Reese, sister Ann (Wayne)
Smallwood, brother David Gray, 8 brothers-in-law, 5 sisters-in-law, 8 cousins, 16 nieces and nephews,
and 25 grand nieces and nephews.

Bert achieved his Bachelor's degree in Leisure Studies from the University of Illinois and his Master's
degree in Business Management from Aurora University.

Bert enjoyed a distinguished career in public service. He was the director of the Oswegoland Park
District, Champaign County Forest Preserve District, Decatur Area Arts Council, Macon County CASA, and
finished his career fundraising for public radio.

Bert had many interests during his life. He was a certified P.A.D.I. instructor; enjoyed diving in the Great
Lakes; held a glider pilot's license; water sports including swimming, canoeing, and sailing; snow skiing;
camping; traveling the world; and maple sugaring. Bert played the trombone as a member of the
Marching Illini in college and recently with the Kishwaukee Concert Band. He was an excellent teacher
and shared his skills with others. His was truly a life well lived.

A reception celebrating Bert's life will be held on February 12, 2023 from 2:00-5:00 at Blumen Gardens,
403 Edward St., Sycamore. There will be a tribute to Bert at 2:30 P.M.

The family requests any donations to honor Bert be made to the Little White School Museum,
Oswegoland Heritage Association, Box 23, Oswego, IL 60543.

Arrangements were completed by the Butala Funeral Home of Sycamore, IL.

To sign the online guest book or write a special memory, go to www.butalafuneralhomes.com