Obituary of Richard Allen Graham

Richard (Dick) A. Graham, beloved husband of Juanita (née Bertka) Graham, died Tuesday, 23 June 2015. Richard was born in Paris, IL June 1, 1924 to Charles Russell Graham and Esther Cameron Graham and moved to Akron with his family when he was 17. A Navy veteran serving during World War II, he worked at Goodyear Tire and Rubber for 46 years. Active in the local Mended Hearts chapter, he volunteered at Akron City Hospital for over 25 years visiting patients who had undergone heart surgery. Richard was an active member of Tallmadge Lutheran Church. He is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Juanita; daughters Dr. Jan Graham (Dr. Robert Fowler), Sara Sanborn (Jon) and son, Michael (Pam) Graham. He also leaves six grandchildren: Kenneth, Stephen, Audra, Jana, Tyler, and Aaron; and five great-grandchildren: Perry, Shane, Amelia, Charlotte, and Noah. He is also survived by his brother Ronald, many nieces and nephews, and close cousins in Florida, Indiana, and Illinois. Affectionately known as "Hogan" while in the Navy, he will be remembered fondly for his quick wit and dry humor. The family wishes to express thanks to their faithful friend, Carl Bullock; special nieces, Sheri and Judy; and daughter-in-law Pam, for all their support. The family also wishes to thank the wonderful staff at NEOCS, Akron General Visiting Nurse Service, and Summa Home Hospice for all the care and consideration given to Richard. Friends are invited to Redmon Funeral Home for visitation Friday 6 to 9 PM. Pastor Andy Alberts and Rev. David Zachrich will conduct service Saturday 11 AM at Tallmadge Lutheran Church, 759 East Ave., Tallmadge 44278, where friends may call from 10 AM until service time. A reception will follow the service. Interment at Oakwood Cemetery will be private. Memorials gifts may be made to Tallmadge Lutheran Church or the American Heart Association.