John M. Grey

August 8, 1957 - July 24, 2022

John M. Grey, 64, of Springfield, died at 3:53 pm, on Sunday, July 24, 2022, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born August 8, 1957, in Taylorville, to Arno and Shirley Dilbeck Grey. He married Colleen Wirrick on October 21, 2000, and she survives.

Also surviving are one aunt, Shannon Inman of Wichita Falls, TX and two cousins, Summer (Donovan) Hickman of Wichita Falls, TX, and Chad (Marsha) Moore of Ft. Worth, TX.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one uncle, Jerry Inman.

John worked for the Springfield Park District for twenty-seven years, and especially enjoyed working at the Henson Robinson Zoo as a zookeeper, and later in his career, maintaining the zoo.

He loved all animals, target shooting, music, and a movie was a must when relaxing. He had a great sense of humor with a quick wit, was a great storyteller, but most of all he enjoyed hanging out with friends.

Visitation: 4-7 pm, Friday, July 29, 2022, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.

Funeral Service: 7 pm, Friday, July 29, 2022 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Rev. Dr. Glen VanderKloot officiating.

A private family graveside will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to Benld Adopt-A-Pet, 807 Stewart Ave, Benld, IL 62009.

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Visitation Information

Date: Friday, July 29, 2022

Time: 04:00 pm - 07:00 pm

Staab Funeral Home - Springfield

Address:

1109 South Fifth Street

Springfield, Illinois 62703

217-528-6461 Map

Service Information

Date: Friday, July 29, 2022

Time: 07:00 pm

Staab Funeral Home - Springfield

Address:

1109 South Fifth Street

Springfield, Illinois 62703

217-528-6461 Map

Cemetery Information

Roselawn Memorial Park

Address:

1735 S Camp Butler Rd

Springfield, IL 62707

(217) 525-1661 Map

A private family service will be held.

Memorial Information

Benld Adopt-A-Pet
807 Stewart Ave
Benld, IL 62009

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Melissa Probst McDowell posted on 7/31/22

Hi Colleen - I’m so sorry - it just sucks - plane and simple! Although we didn’t spend much time with you two, the best memory I have is of you guys coming down to shoot guns at our house - now that was fun! I couldn’t believe that John would collect the shells and repack them…very smart! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers in the days and months to come. Love you, Melissa and Todd

Mike and Robin McConnell posted on 7/28/22

Colleen I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. John was a helluva guy. Only got to see him at company events but the guy was hilarious and that smile. It could light up a concert hall. Take care Colleen Rest In Peace John Thanks for the ride.

Leslie Sgro posted on 7/28/22

The Park District was lucky to have John as a valued member of our team for 27 years. Rest in peace our friend.

Launa & Mike posted on 7/28/22

Colleen I'm so saddened to hear of this devastating loss. I pray that you will find comfort and warmth in the wonderful memories of John. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate through this difficult and challenging time.

Josh posted on 7/28/22

John has been my Father's closest friend since before I can remember. He's always had the most infectious smile and was always willing to share it with the world. I've only got fond memories of John and I'd bet that most people he knew would say the same thing. John will be dearly missed by my entire family and we will all remember the way he could fill a room with laughter and joy. Cheers John.

Nancy Johnson posted on 7/28/22

John was the only person that could make Daryl laugh so hard he cried. This happened almost every time they talked. He was the best man at our wedding 44 years ago so they have been friends even before that. Gave the best tours at the zoo. I’m sure that they are both together again in heaven. He will be missed by all.

Jesi posted on 7/26/22

John was such a bright light to be around. He has been my father's best friend for all my life, everytime he was around everyone was always laughing and smiling because John was such a joy to be around. When I was a teenager I would love to visit him at the zoo so I could have my own private tour of the parts no one got to see. He also lived with my dad for sometime back then and I remember carving pumpkins with him, wacthing tv, and just sitting and enjoying each other's company. As I grew up he would often remind me of the time I was dancing with my headphones on and I thought no one was watching. John was a beautiful example of a caring, kind hearted man and he will be miss dearly.

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