Frank J. Gray

Frank J. Gray, 97, passed away at Scottsdale Shea Hospital on June 30, 2014 after a battle with cancer. He was born Feb. 12, 1917 in Denver, Colo. to Pearl and Martha Gray.

He attended Colorado State University, earning a degree in electric engineering. In spite of being offered a deferment due to his expertise as an engineer, Frank chose to enlist in the Army at the dawn of World War II.

He trained and became an authority on the then brand new technology of radar. Serving in England, France and ultimately Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge, Frank and his four-man radar repair unit earned a commendation for their bravery, crossing into enemy territory to repair damaged radar systems.

Following the war, Frank settled in La Grange, Ill. working for the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors Corporation. It was here that he met and married the love of his life, Hazel Culberson.

After a long and successful career, Frank and Hazel left the cold winters of Illinois and settled in Fountain Hills in September of 1974, where Frank became a popular face in the community.

Avid travelers, Frank and Hazel spent their retirement seeing the world and finding deep pleasure together in their adventures abroad.

Frank is preceded in death by his mother, father, brothers and wife. A viewing and reception will be held at Messinger Fountain Hills Mortuary Thursday, July 3, at 9 a.m. followed by services at 10 a.m.

Frank will be interred with full military honors beside his wife Hazel at Paradise Memorial Gardens. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Fountain Hills Mortuary.