Dana Wray Obituary

My sincerest condolences on the loss of your Mother and Dana.
Dana and I were very close friends at NWMSU. At the time of her accident I was living in KC, and went daily to see her at the hospital for a very, very long time. She was the sweetest and nicest friend, we loved the same music and had such fun together at school. For many years I have tried to locate Dana, and now I feel so sad that I was not successful-- I sent cards and letters to the post office in Waterloo, hoping they would get delivered without a complete address. Today while online, a list came on the screen that included Waterloo, IA, so I decided to try Google and Facebook again - there she was. I am hoping she knows how much I tried to find her. Her accomplishments are amazing, but that was the kind of person she was. She won't be forgotten. Sending love and comfort to her and Elaine.

My friend for 23 years I miss her so much. . She left so suddenly ....

I appreciate having met, conversed with, and learned from Dana Wray during about a five-month period from winter into spring in late 1980 and early 1981 when I helped with her morning routine as a part-time caregiver. It was some of the most meaningful work I have done and taught me a lot about responsibility, dependability, and self-respect as well as respect for others. The goal which she achieved every morning was being prepared and ready to get on the shuttle bus from Lawrence to Topeka for her masters program at Washburn. My life was blessed by knowing Dana Wray and I am motivated by realizing all that she has gone on to accomplish and the positive difference her self-advocacy and broader advocacy for disability justice have made for others. May she rest in peace and may her positive spirit bring comfort to family and loved ones. My condolences to Dana's family. Sincerely, Robb Scott

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Dana was a positive force for Disability Rights. I met Dana when I served in the Kansas Legislature, had a lengthy conversation about her life and the hardships she endured, and her positivity was forceful, giving me insight and information to make votes in support of increased funding. I am so sorry she passed--but I know she's laughing and running in heaven!

Amazing how long Dana made it!!
She was a key advocate and most likely the ultimate reason that Independence Inc. began with a $5000.00 investment to begin implementation of the self-directed personal assistance program for 3 individuals with disabilities who needed personal assistance and were more than capable of handling the hiring and collaboration with individuals who provided the needed help with activities of daily living, termed ADLs. This was the break that occurred when back in the late 80s and early 90s the Kansas Legislature listened and did what advocates had researched and testified was the decent, humane, moral - as well as ultimately most cost-effective way to promote and sustain inclusive life for people with substantial physical disabilities. State Senator Wint Winters was a supporter and advocate for Dana and others who were similarly situated.
May she rest in Peace and Pride in the life she led and the changes she helped to bring.
Ray Petty

So sorry for your losses.