While you do not know me, I feel compelled to write after learning of Fred’s passing via the window posting at Mimi’s.  I did not know Fred, but I saw him many mornings sitting in the window of Mimi’s here in New York as I walked along Second Avenue.  He always looked up from his paper and smiled, and I would smile back.  This small interaction was a welcome start to my day, and now, having read what an exceptional man he was, I am sorry I never actually got to know him.  Needless to say, I will never walk by Mimi’s again that I don’t think of Fred, and I send you sympathy and prayers on the loss of your dear loved one.

As I tried to find a special memory or two to share with you, I discovered there were way too many!  Fred was my Partner in Crime... We delighted in Hallmark movies, Murder She Wrote and sharing inspiring news articles.  Over the last 2 years, we protested and attended political rallys together.  Along with Roger (my partner), we shared a love of British TV, outdoor eating and the Bartletts truck...the three of us always stopped our conversation to watch it pass and never stopped laughing about the night it splashed milk all over Fred!  There were holiday & birthday dinners.  Music events with Harold, Tony, Joe and Nathaniel performing.  Plus, many, many, many nights at La Mediterranee, Pierre Loti and other neighborhood restaurants in discourse and laughter, just hanging out and watching the people go by... Fred inspired me to see just how interesting people are... He experienced such joy from noticing them!  However, it is his subtle humor that brings to mind and heart a favorite memory... 

Fred and Roger were always the first ones out in Spring and last ones in in Fall when it came to dining in outdoor seating areas.  (Yes, they are known on the avenue for this!).  This one particularly cold November night they were both out in front of La Med per usual.  As I arrived, a lady in front of me noticed them and asked, "what are you doing out here?" Fred, without missing a beat, looked up and said, "we're waiting for the snow," then, went back to eating his dinner.  I started to laugh and still am.... Cheers Fred!  We love you!  
With love, luck, laughter & lollipops.... 

To our family: 
I understand just how sad you must feel
For the loss of someone you love.
This time must still feel unreal
And you’re looking for strength from God above.

I hope, from my heart, that your pain will decrease,
That your spirit will gain strength again,
And I pray that your faith will create inner peace
And that God will send blessings...

Till then, if you need me to lighten your load,
I’m waiting to come to your aid.
Just call on me, and I’ll walk down that road,
Until the sorrow of loss fades.

Hold on the precious memories of Fred, 
How he teased us and made us laugh.
His love for photography, travel, biking, and skiing, 
But most importantly his family, as he was a cousin, uncle, and dad.

To my family:   I know that no words can comfort  you  for the lost of Fred, but I want to express how much I looked up to him when I was  a  youngster in Asbury Park. We grew apart when  we all went into the military, but  I always had  Good  memories of  Fred .   Be in peace.  Love you.

Hank and I were very shocked to hear that Fred has passed away.  We have many wonderful memories of Fred in his younger running years.   Hank and Fred ran many marathons together as well as other road races, and they had a lot of fun during and after they finished running.  Especially the parties afterwards.  He was a wonderful, warm, sincere and funny man.  I also enjoyed seeing his posts of his children and grandchildren.  He was very proud of each and every one of them.  I am sure he will be greatly missed by all.
                                                                                                   Claire Hayden

Only the Mayor of Turtle Bay would anoint my then 3 year-old Madeline The Princess of Second Avenue. And only Fred would shout out "Hello Princess!" to us every morning for five years since.  How we miss seeing your smiling face every morning, Fred. The neighborhood is simply not the same without you. Rest in peace, our dear friend.
Love Beth, John & Madeline

Cousin Fred, affectionately known as “MUF” Mean Uncle Fred!  Nothing more further from the truth…  Rather his nickname should have been “TUF” Tough Uncle Fred!  How many 73 year old people have you seen ski the mountain slopes (one of his many passions), ride bicycle marathons, or simply navigate through the hellacious sea of yellow taxicabs in NYC on his bike?  Fred allowed us to share his life through his many Instagram photos dotted with his fondness for travel and adventure; his love for his sons and daughter-in-law’s; and his adoration of his grandchildren.  Fred was just coming into his prime!  How many of you got to experience his generous hospitality at his beloved home just above Mimi’s Italian Restaurant and Piano Bar?  They too were Fred’s family.  Trips to the Big Apple will never be the same.  Sleep softly Fred!  -Dorothea (Dot) & Family

Sending prayers and sincere condolences family during this time of loss.  Rest In Peace cousin Fred and Rise in Glory! 

His life went beyond what he could do for himself, He was always about others and how we can make humanity suffer a little less. 

His sense of diversity and appreciation of different cultures and people made him a joy to be around.

Always understanding, not judging while being himself. 

Sudden but his life was well lived and his contribution to humanity across the world will live on forever. 

His time in Ghana gave me the grandfather I never had. His advice, lessons, support and believe in my future was immerse. 

Fred was always about family. Family to him wasn't only blood but everyone we can help. He has photos of every member of his family, always about memories. No regrets. 

My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones. 

I'm proud to have known him and I will try to be more like Fred. All about family, humanity and making sure I make humanity suffer a little less and smile a little more. 

Mr. Fred as you are normally called in Elmina Ghana, you have been a blessing to us and we appreciate your time with us. Your death has been very sudden but we celebrate you for your life on this earth has been one in a million. You have taught us the real meaning of life; happiness, a beautiful heart, unending kindness and an ever beautiful smile. The kids in the community, the schools, Nsoroma Africa Foundation, the PiFs and Tomorrow's Stars are grateful for all your support. Rest in Perfect Peace Mr. Fred. Till we meet again, you will forever be the "BossPlayer" in our lives. REST WELL MY FRIEND. - Solo.

A message to my forever brother-in-law - Rest in heaven now, Fred.  Your work here is done.   We may not understand God's timing but we know it to be perfect.   Your legacy is complete--4 wonderful sons, 9  beautiful grandchildren,  years of service to others less fotunate....memories of good times and bad, but always lived with love and faith in God.  Go in peace, Fred...you will be missed and loved forever.


OBITUARY

John Frederick Graham

10 January, 1944 – 7 November, 2018

Riverside Memorial Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services