Graber, Richard H. (1908-1986)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 8 Jan 1987 p. 11

Birth date: 1908

text of obituary:

RICHARD H. GRABER

Richard H. Graber, son of Henry P. and Lydia (Miller) Graber, was born near Freeman, S.D., on Jan. 2, 1908. He passed away peacefully on Nov. 27, 1986, at the age of 78.

He was baptized and received into the membership of the Salem Mennonite Church on May 31, 1925, by William S. Gottshall. He remained an active member until his death.

After graduating from Freeman Academy with a teacher's certificate in 1926, he taught rural school for one year. He then chose farming as his life's occupation, working together with his brother, Eldon, until 1936.

On Aug.16, 1933, he was united in marriage to Leone Ortman, and together they made their home on the family farmstead in Childstown township. After semi-retirement in 1973, he continued to enjoy farm work and other interests until slowed by failing health in his final months.

He shared his leadership abilities in a wide variety of church, conference and community activities. He was especially interested in music, serving for many years as congregation song leader and director of the young men's chorus and mixed choir at Salem Mennonite Church. He sang in many church and community groups.

He will be remembered for his strong religious convictions, good judgment, friendliness and sense of humor, devotion to family and friends and love of life.

Remaining to celebrate his life and memory are his wife, Leone; three sons and their wives, DeLayne and Rita, Kenneth and Ruth and James and Muriel; five grandchildren; one brother, Peter H., and his wife, Laura; one sister, Celia, and her husband, Chris Preheim; and one sister-in-law, Lucille Walter. He was preceded in death by a brother, Eldon.