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In Memory

Craig Graham

Craig Graham

Craig J. GrahamCraig J. Graham, 72 of Avon, OH passed away Wednesday, October 21, 2020. He was born October 6, 1948 in Evanston, IL to parents Frank and Gwendolyn (nee Harvey) Graham.

Craig was a Rocky River graduate and received his bachelor's degree from Muskingum University where he was a member of the MACE fraternity and his master's degree from Baldwin Wallace University. He is a U.S. Army veteran that was stationed in Germany. Craig enjoyed gardening and yardwork, DIY home improvements, spending time at the beach and watching movies. He was kind and compassionate, always helping his kids and neighbors with their projects. His family was his pride and joy; always making time to coach or referee and attend their games. He loved watching his grandchildren in all of their sports.

He is survived by his loving children Scott Graham (Amy), Jamie Weaver (Jeffery) and Debbie (nee Mason) Templin (Jim); cherished grandchildren Zachary, Addison, Logan, Avery, Jamisa (Casey), Jimmy (Karlie) and Kiersten; and 4 great-grandchildren; dear brothers Bruce Graham (Fran) and Kevin Graham.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra and his parents.

Memorial contributions may be forwarded to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.

A memorial service with social distancing will be held Saturday, November 14, 2020 at 10am at the Sunset Chapel 6245 Columbia Rd, North Olmsted 44070. Inurnment to follow. www.buschcares.com 440.933.3202

 
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10/28/20 11:02 PM #1    

Rupe Beckstett

Craig and I met in the seventh grade and became life-long friends.  In high school, we formed an "odd jobs" company one summer and did some crazy work wherever we could find employment.  We painted a guy's picket fence (976 pickets) which strained our relationship a tad until we got paid.  We were hired by a man who wanted us to rip up his flag-stone walk that went from his front stoop to the side walk.  He wanted us to re-direct it 90 degrees from his front stoop to his driveway.  We thought we had done a commendable job..........the man thought likewise.  He was about to pay us when his wife drove in the drive and started yelling at us "stupid kids".  Apparently the man had not received prior project approval from his overseer.  We replaced all of the flag-stones in their original positions while receiving instructions and glares.  Turned out to be a good job though as we were paid by the hour. 

We once bought a small, old Dumont television from one of our customers.  It worked great and had a good picture.  It cost us $10 dollars and we were going to double our money and be rich!  This was our first experience with a "get rich quick" scheme.  Problem was, we couldn't find a sucker to buy it.  We had it stashed in Craig's basement for many weeks.  Then Craig's dad sat us down in the basement and lectured us about "get rich quick" schemes........and stupid investments.  He gave us our $10 back and said he would take the TV.  We were both delighted to get our money back and swore we would never do anything so stupid ever again.  For many years, the three Graham boys enjoyed having their own personal Dumont TV in the basement............and that sucker worked flawlessly.

We stayed in touch over the years with Christmas cards and phone calls............and the occasional get-together when I was back in Rocky River for a visit.  We were both busy with family and careers but we remained in contact.  When Deb and I moved to Medina, the contacts and get-togethers became more frequent.  When we started organizing our 50th class reunion, Craig was the first one I called.  He reluctantly agreed to come to one meeting.........and ended up coming to them all..........three years worth.  Craig worked tirelessly on our website and on behalf of our class.  He also was our treasurer and took care of all the banking and disbursements.  A few weeks following our 50th reunion, when all the numbers were crunched, Craig called me and informed me we were missing 34 cents...........he had spent hours reviewing the data..........couldn't find it..........and he wanted answers.  We chuckled about that but I ultimately realized that I had rounded up a number...........my bad.......will never happen again.........sorry Craig.

Craig was an honest and honorable man.  He was married to Sandy for............I don't know how many years.........but it was "until death do you part."  Sandy passed away in 2019.............very sad.  I am comforted by the comments made on the website by classmates.  You knew the same Craig that I knew.  We all have good friends.........but rarely do we have "really, really good friends."  Craig was a really, really good friend.  I will miss his smile and laughter and kidding.  I'm glad I had a chance to say goodbye...........I like to think he heard my words.  I think I am past the tears and overwhelming grief...........but I still feel the void...........probably always will.  

Rest in peace my friend.

-Rupe Beckstett     

  

  


10/29/20 12:37 PM #2    

Pam Bratt (Maly)

Although I didn't know Craig well, I enjoyed reading Rupe's stories of his early day friendship with Craig as well as his complete dedication in helping to plan the 50th reunion.   Thanks to Rupe for sharing some heartfelt memories.   


10/29/20 01:07 PM #3    

Lou Caravella

I have known Craig since elementary school and the activities that we shared during those times.  He was truly a kind and gentle soul as Rupe has already indicated and  I could not express it any better.  R.I.P

 


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