John (Walter) Gordon Graham's Obituary
John (Walter) Gordon Graham
Our beloved Dad was born on February 21, 1922 in Sumner, Washington, one of four children born to Walter and Margaret Graham. He passed away June 23, 2012 at 90 years of age, finding the peace he was seeking in joining Mom in heaven. Living in Tacoma the majority of his life, he graduated from Lincoln High School in 1941. He and Mary Schoneboom Graham wed on March 17, 1948, and were married for almost 62 years at the time of her passing on December 7, 2009. Within a span of 24 years, six children were born to the marriage, the last child being born on their 25th wedding anniversary. He is survived by his children, Johnny (Fredda) Graham, Debby (Ken) Webber, Peggy Rundberg, Mike (Malia) Graham, Jill (Paul) Anderson, and Melissa (Matt) Iversen. He has eight grandchildren, Todd and Brooke Laney, Amy (Rob) Tutor, Chrissy (Milo) Braseth, Parker and Megan Graham, and Emily and Joshua Iversen. He is also the great-grandfather of Chloe, Bailey, Bobby, William, Abby, Kira, Hannah, Trenton, Olivia, and Charlotte - Charlotte being born only four days prior to his death. He loved all children and always enjoyed being surrounded by them. Dad is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Glenn B. (Bud) and Doris Graham, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Dorothy Larson and Betty Aronson. Dad retired from Cammarano Brothers Rainier Beer Distributor in 1984, after being employed by the company for over 37 years. Nearly every Saturday morning for many, many years, he was up early and out on the greens playing golf. He had many happy memories of this passion. Dad played the piano by ear, having never learned to read music. His life was centered around family gatherings, and he enjoyed camping, taking road trips, Sunday drives to the "Point," watching sports, playing cards and Scrabble, working crossword puzzles, reading, and growing his vegetable gardens. Although Dad was a man of few words, he will be remembered for his dry sense of humor and teasing ways. Our family would like to thank Lois's Place Adult Home for all the care and love they provided Dad during his last month of life. He commented to family members that Lois was a "miracle." Her wonderful dedication to him helped make his final days easier for all. We also appreciate the care Franciscan Hospice provided and especially want to thank Diane. A private memorial and graveside service is being planned.
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.
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