Ivan Graves of DeWitt passed away July 24, 2019. Ivan was born the 2nd of 8 children on March 13, 1921 to James and Violet Graves in Rose City, Michigan. He was preceded in death by both his parents. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Norma Graves and their only child, Larry Graves. Ivan is survived by his two grandchildren, Christine (Lee) McCallister of Bath and Brian (Greg Jagmin) Graves of Chicago, great-grandchildren Max and Nora McCallister.
While finding it difficult to summarize a life that spanned almost a century, one thing is certain, Ivan had an unmatched zest for life. He met you with an easy smile. Ivan was fiercely loyal. He loved his mother dearly and spoke often of her Sunday family chicken dinners. He often surrounded himself by many - from his family, his neighbors and coworkers to complete strangers who he would befriend. He had a group he would meet regularly at McDonalds of DeWitt. He was a farmer, worked as a die maker, upholsterer, he often told stories of time spent at CCC camp in the Upper Peninsula before the Mackinac Bridge was constructed.
He enjoyed many things ranging from “tinkering," restoring old cars, new cars, camping, fishing, watching old movies very loudly - there was not much Ivan did not like. He loved the open road, driving was something he very much enjoyed. A drive to Phillips Orchard & Cider Mill for year-round cider slush was well worth it. He was a gadget guy long before present day gadgets, learned new technology as it evolved and said he was amazed at all this “touch screen business.” He often told stories about earlier days before there was so much “stuff.”
The past few years he had taken quite a liking to his great-grandchildren, with whom he shared many Slurpees, snacks, stories and smiles.
Ivan made many things. He also tore things apart to yield improvements, find broken items and fix them just for something to do. There is no less than 10,000 plastic tops in the greater Lansing area he gave away. If anyone reading this has a top, it would be nice to hear about your Ivan-story.
He served in the United States Navy during WWII aboard the USS Cleveland. He shared more and more Navy stories the past few years and was proud of his time served. He traveled the globe, crossed the equator, went through the Panama Canal numerous times, and once that shared what he missed most while out at sea was milk.
Recently he attended the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight and upon returning communicated he wanted to go again. He was a sailmaker while in the Navy and continued to sew and create all sorts of items since.
Shortly after discharge from he Navy he married Norma Malcomb. They had many adventures. It is comforting to know he has reunited with the family he made once again.
A special and heartfelt thanks to Heartland Hospice and the myriad of people who assisted both Ivan and Norma. The list of people is long and each of you must know, you were a family he put together himself when his immediate family grew smaller. He enjoyed each of you. Please know your kindness, patience and time spent with him was something he looked forward to. He also loved your willingness to dance with him while listening to his jukebox, ride his lawn mower and just sit and hear stories of his life. Your group brought out a side of Ivan that was very special. We are grateful.
Prior to hospice care, Ivan was cared for by Dr. John Goebel for many years and he always spoke of his appreciation and fondness for Dr. Goebel.
Ivan recently relocated to Vista Springs Timber Ridge and while he never declaring it home, he knew it was necessary. And yet another group of individuals who presented toward the end of his life that he was able to handpick a few more into his family. Ivan proved age was no obstacle for making friends and sharing kindness. We are grateful.
There will be a private graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Mid-Michigan Honor Flight, PO Box 385, Mecosta, MI, 49332
"Crazy life,” he would say as smiled and he shook his head side to side. It sums up a life enjoyed.
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