Carol Gray

Carol Gray, 65, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Carol was born on July 11, 1960, in Crocker Township, Iowa, the youngest of five children to Jack Kopaska and Raetta Imler.

Carol is survived by her two children, Sara (Dalton) Shepherd, and Daniel (Katie) Gray; her beloved grandchildren, Mackenzie, Madilyn, Chloe, Zoey, Elliee, and Danny. Carol is also survived by her siblings Les, John, Jacque, and KC Kopaska. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Raetta.

A friendly, kind, and deeply sociable soul, Carol lit up every room she entered. She had a great love for music and dancing, always in search of laughter, rhythm, and unforgettable moments. She also cherished time spent outdoors and was an avid morel mushroom hunter, finding joy in nature’s quiet wonders and the thrill of the search. If she wasn’t hunting mushrooms, she was discovering lost treasures hidden in little known thrift stores or a random garage sale on a hot summer day. Her warmth and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on family, friends, and all who crossed her path.

Carol’s loving spirit touched countless lives and will continue to shine through the memories she created and the family she leaves behind. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace with God, surrounded by the light and love she so freely gave to others, now carried forward in the hearts of those who loved her most.

A celebration of life will be held at Saylorville Lake Bob Shetler Recreation Area shelter #2 on July 12th from 1pm to 4pm.

Feel free to bring a side of food for the BBQ and any memories you would like to share of Carol.