Today we are remembering an iconic long-time leader of Nature Manitoba – John Gray – who passed away peacefully on Monday May 19, one month after his wife Pat Gray's death.
John was also the Grey Hares Coordinator for many years until he handed off to Francy Wheadon in 2013, who passed the torch to us (Kevin & Anita Miller) in February 2021.
Anita's second-ever Grey Hares activity in September 2013 was canoeing at Patricia Beach with 5 other Grey Hares, including 4 Nature Manitoba "Hall of Famers": John, Les McCann, Roger Turenne, and Jerry Zaste. Anita was John's bow paddler. We have numerous fond memories of being with John at Grey Hares activities.
Our condolences to John's family, and many close friends.
John's full obituary can be found here.
Charles Begley wrote this about Pat & John:
"I have been camping with Pat and John for over 25 years. Coming from the UK, I had never camped before. I joined the Grey Hares. John Gray was the group’s leader. He taught me all about canoeing and camping.
In those days we went camping at least 3 times a year. Pat & John did everything together, and really enjoyed each others company.They were so instrumental in setting up and leading the Grey Hares. Without them, in my opinion, there would be no Grey Hares.They set up all the spring, summer and winter outings. No indoor gatherings. It was always outdoors."