Robert Wayne Graham

He was born June 12, 1930 in Flint, Michigan, son of the late Robert E. and the late Ida May (nee: Toles) Graham.

At the young age of 18, Robert already knew that he had the blood of a “Patriot” running through his veins. The country was just a couple years past, and still celebrating, our victory in World War II when Robert answered the call of his heart to serve our country by enlisting in the

U.S. Air Force. What began as a simple commitment for a four year stint eventually expanded to a 20 year pledge of allegiance as Robert’s passion for the armed services kept compelling him to re-up at each potential separation. During his time in the Air Force, Robert’s assignments took him to places such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand. But the momentous location that eventually made the list was Fairfield, California where he received his honorable discharge after a long and distinguished military career. Ultimately attaining the rank of Senior Master Sergeant (SMSGT), Robert played an integral role, as part of the 60 Field Maintenance Squadron, by keeping everything humming along like a swiss clock.

So it is, with thanks and praise from a grateful nation, that we pay homage to Robert’s service to our country and extend our posthumous gratitude for his answering the call with pride, and his willingness to stand in harm’s way at a moment’s notice. For his bravery and devotion to America, we honor Robert’s loyalty and patriotism by acknowledging just how great our country is because of people like him.

Upon completing his duty assignment and receiving his discharge from the Air Force, Robert decided to follow the path of trade work and received extensive training in the field of refrigeration & appliance repair. As he entered his job search with credentials in hand, it was the iconic Sears department store that saw Robert’s worth and work ethics as they offered him a position with the company. Robert spent many years with Sears until the store began going through their changes. His ultimate release would open the doors to another popular employer, the Tappan Company, a familiar household name in appliances.

Robert was a hard worker and always poured the best of himself into each job and task at hand, After all, he didn’t reach the level of Senior Master Sergeant by sitting on his thumbs, right? But for as much as he poured into work, he did so even more into his role as Dad. He was truly a Dad “in touch.” Of the many recollections that could be shared, his son Kelly recounts how his Dad was his momentary savior when delivering the newspapers became challenging. Whether for the in-climate weather days, or the dead of winter days, being a young boy on a paper route could have its woes,…but here came Robert with the car to make the task a little more manageable and a lot less wet. With two strapping  boys to watch over, Robert was truly their Knight in Shining Armor standing guard to keep them safe.

Perhaps the most unique aspect of Robert’s life would have to be his passion and support for all sports of the University of Michigan. Nobody knows exactly WHY he held such fervor and enthusiasm for the Maize & Blue, but Robert was definitely one of their most ardent followers and fans.

The other sport he loved was golf. Whether watching or playing the game, Robert found immense joy in simply being connected to the sport. Over the years there were even more of those “Dad moments” eluded to earlier,…this time in the sharing of league play with his son, Kelly. Together they competed in various leagues and helped hone each others’ skills. Another story shared by Kelly comes from one day at the Buick Open. Robert and Kelly were fortunate to have bagged a couple of tickets to the event, (which, by the way, is like hitting the jackpot), and were patrons amidst the gallery as some of the golfers were in the area. At a specific quiet moment of play, the familiar sound of somebody jingling coins in their pocket peeled the quiet and compelled a comment from one of the caddies who asked, “anybody got change for a buck?” And just who might you guess was the coin jingler? That’s right,…Robert. For anyone who knows the Buick Open and the sensitivities of those quiet moments, then the comedy of that caddie will make perfect sense.

Robert was also known for his woodworking talents. He always seemed to be dabbling with some of his wood creations, especially on the many birdhouses he crafted over the years. But his prowess with wood was not merely relegated to small projects as he was an able and adept helper when his son, Lance was building his home in Royal Oak. So from the small to the big, and everything in between, Robert was truly the WoodMeister in the family.

When Robert was able to find a bit of quiet, “me time” in the day, you’d often find him sitting with his treasured daily newspaper, or perhaps a good book, as he was an avid reader and loved expanding his mind through the literary medium. Feeding his mind also took its form in his love of solving crossword puzzles, an old favorite that both challenged and elated this old pro.

Robert will also be remembered for his devotion to his faith and the dedication he held for his church, Sterling Heights United Methodist in the city of its name. He was an active member for many years and was ready to help in any capacity possible. Perhaps it was his faith that afforded Robert the endurance he exuded,…he had the patients of a saint. He was a devout family man,…an adoring & doting Grandpa,…and a Compassionate Furr-Daddy to his precious Terrier, Tyson. He leaves a storehouse of wonderful memories to be cherished by all who were blessed to know him Robert will be missed immensely and loved eternally.       

Robert was the beloved husband of the late Donna Hope (nee: Kennedy) Graham. Dear father of Kelly (Elizabeth) Graham, and the late Lance Graham. Loving grandfather of Kevin, Travis, and Karly. Devoted brother of Mary, Evelyn, and preceded in death by siblings; Harold, Clara, Carl, and Jim.

A Memorial Visitation for Robert will be held Saturday, June 22nd from 10:00 am until time of his Memorial Service at 1:00 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile Rd) in Warren. 

Memorial donations are welcomed to Sparky Anderson's CATCH Charity for Children, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Suite 223, Detroit, Michigan 48202.  (https://catchcharity.org)

Please share memories of Robert at his guest book below.