Joseph Chester Graham

Joseph Chester Graham, age 87 of Warren, died Friday, March 6, 2020 at the Lakeshore Living facility in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. He was born September 4, 1932 in Detroit, son of the late Edward and the late Julia (nee: Jablonski) Graham.

As one of the many in his day who navigated the highways and byways in bringing necessary goods to the marketplace, Joseph was a proud and dedicated employee of Eastown Distributors out of Highland Park that delivered both “products & personality” to the host of wonderful customers that he served. Along with enjoying a great place to work, Joseph was also an esteemed member of his local Teamsters union with whom he relished in the brotherhood and camaraderie of his fellow road warriors.

In his younger years, Joseph was taken by the game of baseball,…and was quite good at it, too. Many can play baseball, but it’s a select few who are phenomenal at the sport,…and Joe was definitely part of that exception. Having spent countless hours on the diamond, many were looking at him with eyes on the big leagues and something more than merely a hometown stint. Yet though the professional venture never blossomed, baseball remained a vital part of his youth and a game in which he was truly immersed in the Americana of it all. Thereto was born his affinity for his favorite Boys of Summer, the Detroit Tigers. Growing up with legends such as Kaline, Horton and Lolich, much of Joseph’s aspirations were influenced by these giants, as well as so many more. And almost as much as he revered our Tigers, so too was his devotion to our Boys in the Winged Wheel, the Detroit Red Wings. An avid fan of Hockeytown, and one of the “Original Six,” Joseph enjoyed countless hours of watching pleasures, whether in person or on the television.

Aside from the realm of sports, Joseph’s younger years were also filled with the fun and enjoyment of playing cards and polka dancing. From the friendly competition that accompanied slingin’ cards around the table with fellow card sharks, to sharing the dance floor with Sandra as the two lovebirds kicked up their heels and twirled around the dance hall like a couple of pro’s,…Joseph knew how to have a good time, how to make wonderful memories in the process, and how to share the goodness of life in everything he did.

Playing the lottery and giving Ol’ Lady Luck a run for her money were pleasures he also enjoyed,…and it was always the 3 Digit Michigan Lottery that drew Joe’s attention. When it came to gift giving, he was always hoping his loved ones would hit it big with one of the scratch-off’s he extended to them over the years.

Well into his golden years, Joseph was blessed to enjoy a vibrant memory and faculties that remained quite sharp. Therein, he found great pleasure in sharing conversation with others, and Joe had a plethora of great stories at his disposal. Reminiscing about old times, family memories, and the blessings he had known were such a huge part of his favorite things to do as the years pressed on.

Many will also reflect on the soft heart that he possessed, especially when it came to those furry, four-legged of the species, the pets and animals that he adored. Loving on and caring for animals says a lot about a person, and it spoke volumes to the wonderful human being everyone knew Joe to be. Yet when it came to Joseph’s capacity to extend his love and care, there were no greater benefactors than those closest in his life,…his blessed family & friends. A kind and loving man who was regarded as a true gentleman, Joseph leaves an incredible impact on the many hearts and souls he touched as he journeyed this side of Heaven.

An adoring husband, father, and grandfather, Joseph was also, amazingly, the last of 15 children, with all of his brothers and sisters preceding him in death. He leaves a wonderful legacy of love for all to embrace with each reflection shared. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.   

Joseph was the beloved husband of the late Sandra. Dearest father of Joseph (Jody) Graham and John (Christine) Graham. Loving grandfather of Emily, Lauren, Christian, Johanna, and Nina. Joseph was preceded in death by 14 siblings.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Joseph's life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 2nd at St. Veronica Catholic Church, 21440 Universal Drive in Eastpointe, Michigan. 

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Joseph at his guest book below.