Ishpeming-Fred Loren Gray, age 89 formerly of 6856 Co. Rd. CH Ishpeming, passed away Monday, March 3, 2008 at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette where he been a resident since October 2001.

Fred was born October 16, 1918 in Marinette, WI to Fred H. & Clara M. (Rupert) Gray. Loren graduated from Marinette High School and attended the University of Wisconsin for 2 years prior to getting drafted in the United States Army. Loren served in the South Pacific for 5 years during World War II, receiving many citation and decorations including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star with the oak leaf cluster.

After being honorably discharged, Loren lived in Munising where he owned and operated Munising Motors later moving to Ishpeming where he worked for D & C Motors. Loren later worked for the Cleveland Cliffs Mining Company in the warehouse purchasing department at the Republic Mine and retired from the Tilden Mine in 1981.

Loren was a member of the Negaunee Rod & Gun Club, where he honed his pistol shooting skills, achieving UP Pistol Champion one year. Loren also enjoyed hunting & fishing, boarding & raising horses on his farm and riding around on his Ford tractor. Loren was a life member of the National Rifle Association, a member of the Disabled American Veterans of Munising and the Ishpeming V.F.W. Post # 4573.

Loren is survived by his wife of 61 years, Pearle (Richlen) Gray, 2 sons James (Judy) Gray of Ishpeming and Jeffrey Gray of Lansing, 9 grandchildren, & 8 great grandchildren. Loren was preceded in death by an infant daughter and an infant son and a brother Harry Gray.

A memorial service will be held 1:00p.m. Saturday, April 19, 2008 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming with Fr. Greg Heikkala officiating. The family will greet friends and relatives at the funeral home on Saturday from 11:00am until the time of service at 1:00p.m.

Loren's obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where his guest book may be signed.