1959 in Battle Creek Michigan to Donald and Laura Graving. He was preceded in death by his
parents and his brother William Donald Graving of Toledo Ohio. He is survived by two brothers
and a sister: Robert Graving of Portage, Kathryn Everett of Battle Creek Michigan, Michael
Graving of East Lansing Michigan, and a dozen nieces and nephews that are scattered across
the country.
Richard loved the work he did in his law practice in Shelby Township as much as he loved the
community itself, and served as a commission member on the Police and Fire Service
Commission in Shelby Township for many years. Richard was very proud of his Norwegian
ancestry and traveled extensively in the Scandinavian countries where he visited many of his
Norwegian relatives. His maternal grandparents immigrated from Norway to Detroit in 1907. He
made a study of Norwegian literature, culture, and language and read over two hundred
volumes on the subjects. He also made a study of the world’s greatest classic literature. He was
an avid reader. Richard was also a fan of the Detroit sports teams and went to many games with
his friends.
Sweet Richard will be sadly missed by his friends, family, and neighbors. He was a kind and
generous man who loved animals and who lived life on his own terms.
Richard didn’t want a funeral. He felt that he had led a good life and wanted his life to be
celebrated.
A Celebration of Life is being organized, and the date will be announced later.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association.
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