William Raymond Gross Jr., formerly of Du Quoin

William Raymond Gross Jr., 77, of O'Fallon, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 at Elmwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Maryville, Illinois. He was born Monday, July 14, 1941 in Du Quoin, Illinois.

Ray was a member of the American Legion and the United Mine Workers Association. He adored and loved his grandchildren, as well as his great-grandchildren. Ray was always on the road to attend his grandchildren's events. He enjoyed all sports but was an avid Cubs fan, who loved his dog and companion Rizzo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gloria Clevenger Gross, and Ray and Vivian Gross.

Ray is survived by two children, Bill Gross of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Nancy (Mark) Deterding of O'Fallon, IL; one sister, Lynn (Mark) Woodside of Du Quoin; four brothers, David (Linda) Gross of Pinckneyville, Illinois, Jeff (Ray) Gross of Maryville, Clyde (Anita) Gross of Du Quoin, and John (Lori) Gross of Du Quoin; four grandchildren, Cassandra Day, Caleb Day, Eric Deterding and Bradley Deterding; and five great-grandchildren.

In honor of Ray, memorials may be made to Perry County Humane Society at www.perrycountyhumanesocietyil.com. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.

A celebration of life will begin at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018 at St. Nicholas Brewing Company, 12 S. Oak St., Du Quoin.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home in O'Fallon.