HOLYOKE, Mass. (WGGB) — When he started his freshman year at UMass just a few months ago, Jonathan “Jonno” Gray picked up right where he’d left off when he graduated Holyoke High School.

“Everybody enjoyed being around him,” UMass rowing crew club advisor Brian Arnold told ABC40 Monday.  “He was dedicated and passionate about not only the men’s crew, but just being at UMass in general.”

And now he is gone too soon.  Gray died at his family’s Holyoke home Thursday, January 5, apparently while working out.  The kinesiology major had garnered a 3.1 GPA in his maiden semester at UMass, while winning the hearts of many.

“Not only a strong teammate,” continued Arnold, “but a really good friend.  I think in the short time that they knew Jon, they were able to build some really good relationships and friendships with him.”

Such sentiments were echoed in Gray’s hometown, not least at his alma mater, where he not only was a champion but also earned the rare distinction of playing three sports each of his four years.

“He was a record setter in track and shot put.  He was one of the stars in our football program, but more importantly he was a fine young man,” said Aaron Patterson, director of athletics for Holyoke Public Schools.  “He was nice to everybody, cared about people deeply.  He will be sorely missed here at Holyoke High School.”

A vigil is scheduled at the high school’s football bleachers Monday evening at 6 p.m.  A wake will be held at the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke, 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m. Wednesday, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 34 Jarvis Avenue, Holyoke.