Name: Donald L. Gray (1924-2010)

Historical Note: Donald L. Gray was born on April 20, 1924 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Graduating from Franklin High School in 1942, he left Coe College after the first semester to enlist in the Air Force in 1943, in which he served until his discharge in 1946. He graduated from the architectural program at Iowa State College (Iowa State University) in 1950 and moved to Decorah, Iowa, where he joined the firm of local architect Charles Altfillisch. This firm eventaully became the Altfillisch, Gray, and Olson firm; Gray worked with Altfillisch on several iconic Luther College buildings including the Center for Faith and Life and Preus Library. After Altfillisch's retirement, the firm was renamed Olson, Gray, Thompson, and Lynnes. Gray was awarded a Luther College Distinguished Service Award in 1977. He passed away on April 1, 2010.

Sources: Donald L. Gray's obituary: http://www.fjelstul.com/obituary/866041

Note Author: Hayley Jackson

Records or Manuscript Collections Created by Donald L. Gray