Surrounded by family at his Grand Rapids home, Richard L Graham 78, peacefully left his earthly body on August 8, 2021. Continuing his legacy are his sister Carol Grable, his two beautiful daughters: Susette (Dave) Cook and Linda (Jeff) Lewis; his four grandchildren: Stephan Lewis, Deanna Cook, Trenton Lewis, Graham Cook, and his great-grandchildren: Kimaya, Maverick, and Nayvii.
Richie or “Face” as he was known by many of his friends, lived a full and vigorous life. He was a Boy Scout, ROTC Cadet, US Army and Army Reserve PFC. After school and military, he became a successful restaurateur and caterer; operating Graham's Cafeteria on Michigan Street hill for many years. After hanging up his chef's hat, Rich went to work at a local Food Broker and later; he represented several product lines, independently. Upon deciding to finally retire from food service, Rich found himself enjoying his newfound weekend gig as a truck dispatcher for Lacks Industries.
Rich became active in the local Restaurant and Wine Associations at the time of owning his restaurant. He fell in love with horse racing, and he used to travel to local tracks and call horse races. Later, he joined the shooting range and many of the clubs and halls around Grand Rapids. He loved and looked forward to his weekly buddy meetings with his many friends.
It was by marrying his high school sweetheart, Carole Venema in 1964, that they made and shared this wonderful life together; until enduring her loss in 2012. His father, Harry “Pete” and his mother, Nellie have also preceded him in death.
Father and friend, a rock to his girls; he will forever be held fondly in our hearts.
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