William Gene Graham

Jan. 19th, 1928 – Dec. 28th, 2017

Bill was born in Salinas, CA Jan. 19th, 1928, the youngest son to William and Floy Graham. Shortly after birth his parents and older brother Jennings moved to Hunters, Washington where he spent his earliest days. Bills father started a shoe shop but after a fire at his father’s shop, the family moved to Spokane and there his father opened another shoe shop in the Garland area. Bill attended Willard Elementary and North Central H.S. except many Mondays. He was a standout football and baseball player and captained both teams. It was there that he met his lifelong sweetheart Beverly Woellner. After graduating from high school in 1947, Bill joined his older brother Jennings and enlisted in the military as a paratrooper in the 11th Army Airborne and served in Japan at the end of WWII. He re-enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska with his brother where he enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time. He and Beverly married in Jan. 1951 and a year later their first son William Patrick was born. After serving, Bill, Bev and son Pat moved back to Spokane where their daughter Kay and son Michael were born. He and Beverly started Graham and Associates Painting which they successfully operated for 25 years. After retiring from his business he decided to go back to work at Fairchild AFB where he ran the paint shop until finally retiring. He developed many friendships from school and work that lasted throughout his lifetime. From an early age Bill loved the outdoors. Opening day and late buck were his favorite times of the year. Trips to Alaska with his brother, the cabin in Montana with his sons and his spot at Old Trails were some of his favorite places. He loved playing golf and having a beer with his buddies at Sundance Golf Course. He was never late, his word was golden. He was always there to lend a hand when needed to his friends and family. He truly loved his family and after losing his wife of 67 years Beverly just weeks prior, we knew it would only be a matter of days.

Bill and Beverly leave behind their children William P. Graham, Kay (and Jerry) Solecki and Michael (and Kelly) Graham, several grandchildren and great grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Our family would like to thank all of his great friends and fantastic neighbors. His fishing and golfing buddies and the care providers who made it possible for mom and dad to stay in their home.