Skip to main content

Robert J. Graham

By Billie Owens

Robert J. Graham, of Alexander, NY, age 87, joined his loving and cherished wife Rita, of 64 years, in heaven on August 26, 2019. Bob passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his devoted family. Surviving are loving children: Robert (Cher), Donald (Doreen), Thomas (Eva), James (Lisa Wall), David, Susan (Kristopher) Kautz, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also surviving are sister Jean Johnson and sister-in law Lynne Graham, both of Buffalo NY along with many nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by parents Robert and Margaret Graham, brother James and brother-in-law Carl Johnson.

Bob retired as plant manager from Sylvania in Batavia, NY. Subsequent to his retirement from Sylvania, he ran his own business, A1 Painting and Wallpapering, for nearly 20 years. He and his sons also operated Vacationland boarding kennels.

Bob was an avid deer hunter and also enjoyed field training beagles, rabbit hunting and ice fishing. The thrill of opening day and hunting season was ongoing. He passed this passion on to his five sons and grandchildren, enjoying many exciting times together. Bob enjoyed years of riding his Harley with sons and close friends.

Bob and Rita spent the last 26 years wintering in Palm Springs, Florida, where they enjoyed going to the ocean, shuffleboard and club activities. Bob would hold Rita so tightly while dancing to their old-time favorites. An accomplished pool player, Bob earned numerous trophies. Euchre was a sociable game enjoyed by both. Traveling together, including trips to Ireland, Hawaii, Alaska and Caribbean cruises with family and friends was another favorite pastime.

So many cherished memories were made when Bob, Rita and all their children would gather together at the family camp in Shamokin, PA, target shooting, searching for bears, and playing cards. The simple things, like sharing a meal together, sitting around the table telling hunting stories and laughing were the times Bob treasured. For many years, the family gathered together each summer for a family vacation at Kring Point in the 1000 Islands.

Bob was a dedicated and loving husband, father and grandfather, family was everything to him and he will be sadly missed by all. The family takes comfort knowing that inseparable in life, Bob and Rita are joined together again for eternity.

The Graham family welcomes you to attend a memorial service at the Alexander United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 2:00 PM. All are welcome to join in the celebration of Bob's life immediately following at the Attica Golf Club from 3:30 to 7:30 PM.

Contributions/Donations may be made to the Gateway Hospice Home of Attica NY.

Authentically Local