David D. Gray

Obituary's Biography:

David Dean Gray, age 88, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2025. He was born on September 20, 1936, to the late Helen and Eldean Gray. David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, stepfather, step-grandfather, and step-great-grandfather whose legacy will be cherished forever.

David is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 38 years, Patricia. His children survive him: Pamela (Richard), Cheryl (Wayne), and Sarah (Brian); his grandchildren: Loren (Brad), Amanda (Nate), Jason (Alison), Nicolette (Will), Jack (Chelsea), Adam, Abby, Joseph, and Jonathan; and his great-grandchildren: Landon, Patrick, Joelle, Archer, and Jayden.

David is also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 19 years, Barbara (O’Brien). His stepchildren survive him: Terry (Cindy), Darren (Sharon), Daniel, and Michael (Patti); his step-grandchildren: Jennifer (Shane), Megan (Mark), Nicholas, Nathan, Nolan, Allison, Niles, and Aidan; and his step-great-grandchildren, Samantha, Max, and Miles.

David is also survived by his long-time companion, Wyona Snyder.

David invented and flew the first radio-controlled (RC) helicopter in 1970. His original model is displayed at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.

David began experimenting with radio-controlled models early on, starting with electric-powered airplanes, cars, and boats. His passion for RC models eventually led him to helicopters, and his .40-powered RC helicopter made the cover of Model Airplane News in 1970.

He later worked with Du-Bro to develop his helicopter designs further, resulting in successful models like the Du-Bro Whirley Bird 505.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

All funeral services were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.