Dennis Gray of Highland, IN, passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on September 23,1946, in Glens Falls, NY, he was the youngest of four siblings to Arzy and Allene Gray. Dennis graduated from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and began his lifelong career of service with the YMCA. His work led him to adventures throughout the midwest from Wisconsin to Kansas to Indiana, most recently serving as Executive Director at the Hammond Area YMCA where he retired in 2001.

Dennis married Susan Steinert in 1969 and together they spent over 56 years sharing love for family, friends, and church. Dennis was known for his joy of biking, hiking, and photography, listening to music and playing the organ. He also enjoyed visiting family and spending time with daughters and grandchildren who lovingly called him “Bampa.” Dennis was kind, clever, inquisitive, humorous and remained active in his community throughout retirement, working part time at the School City of Hammond Adult Career Center and the American School in Lansing. He also kept busy in various social groups, including photo clubs, Northwest Indiana Parkinson’s classes, and leading a senior group at his church.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife Sue Gray; daughters Jenny (Brian) Frick, Julie (Ian) Beasley, and Melissa (Dan) Lobring; grandchildren Nathan, Erika, Elliott, Pippa, Jude, and Zoey; and sister Jean (Roy) Wilcox. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ridge United Methodist Church (Munster, IN) or Northwest Indiana Parkinson’s Inc. (https://nwiparkinson.org).