Daniel Gray

Daniel “Danny” Lee Gray, 61, of Zion, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, in Zion, with his wife by his side.

Following his 1983 graduation from Zion-Benton Township High School, Danny attended WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming, where he graduated as a Certified Diesel Technician.

Danny began his career as a diesel technician for a bus company, eventually working his way into an administrative position as Branch Manager for Laidlaw Transit. In 2006, he began working for a large car dealership, starting as a salesman before advancing to Service Manager. Throughout his years as a salesman and service manager, Danny received numerous awards and recognition and was very well respected by those who worked with him. His coworkers will especially remember his signature smile and familiar “Hey, hey!” greeting.

Danny was a kind man with a big heart and a great love for the Lord. He was a friend to everyone he met and was always willing to give the shirt off his back to someone in need. Danny was also known to work on anyone’s car who needed the help. From replacing brakes to diagnosing problems, Danny was your man.

He loved cars of all kinds, but his true passion was working on old muscle cars and Corvettes. Danny loved bringing them back to life and could spend countless hours in the garage doing what he enjoyed most.

Danny is survived by his wife, Terri; his stepchildren, Craig Mills, Kyle (Lindy) Mills, and Alyssa Russell; his grandchildren, Lincoln, Addison, Eli, Eddie, and Baker; his son, Alex Gray; his sisters, Barb (Tom) Fraley, Marilyn (Steve) Wenzel and his brother John (Greg) Gray.

He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, June Russell; his mother, Yolanda Gray; his father, Casey Gray; and his sister, Debbie Gray.

Danny’s family is incredibly grateful to the wonderful staff at Star Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and care they gave him during his final days. Knowing that Danny was cared for so gently and lovingly meant more than words can express.

Visitation will take place Friday, August 28, 2026 at the Congdon Funeral Home from 5:00 to 7:00 PM with a funeral service beginning at 7:00 PM.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at The Moose Lodge in Winthrop Harbor (41517 N Sheridan Rd) to continue sharing memories, visiting with one another, and celebrating Danny’s life. Food and refreshments will be provided.