Richard Graham

Richard (Dick) Graham passed away on May 3, 2013, at Kansas City Hospice House.

Dick was born on July 26, 1931, in Kearney, Nebraska, the son of Lester Graham and Margaretella McDonald Graham. Dick grew up in Kearney, reared by his grandmother, Josephine McDonald and great-grandmother, Ella McDonald. He was a graduate of Kearney High School and served in the United States Navy. In 1954 he married Gloria Darling, also of Kearney, Nebraska. They spent forty-one years together during which time they shared many interests and raised two daughters.

Gloria preceded him in death in 1995. Dick was a manufacturer's rep and owner and President of R.L. Graham Associates. Dick appreciated music and the arts and passed this appreciation to his daughters. He was a classical harmonica player, even performing with the Kansas City Philharmonic. He and Gloria loved to entertain friends and opened their home to foreign exchange students from countries all around the world. Dick explored photography and wine making. He was an Amateur Radio Operator ( WB0RBY ), and loved discovering the stories behind the names through his research in genealogy. He was proud of his Scottish heritage.

One of Dick's greatest passions was the sea. He enjoyed scuba diving, snorkeling and sailing. A Master Sailor, he and Gloria sailed their own boat in the Caribbean. Dick believed in serving others and led by example his entire life, participating, often behind the scenes, with civic groups and clubs and volunteering at church, Kansas University Medical Center and in his community. Whether he was flipping pancakes, ringing bells for the Salvation Army or feeding the rabbits in a freshly groomed cemetery, he took great joy in giving.

Dick was a Past President of the Leawood Lions Club, a recipient of the Melvin Jones Award as well as Lion of the Year for his work in maintaining Pioneer Cemetery. He was a Mason and held a membership in the Rob Morris Lodge in Kearney, Nebraska where he was raised to the level of a Master Mason in 1951. He was also a member of Ancient Form #34 in Shawnee, Kansas, where he was Past Master. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, 32nd degree, and a member of the Order of Eastern Star. He was a Disabled American Veteran and held memberships in the VFW and The American Legion. He had a strong Christian faith and was a founder and member of the Board of Directors of Community Church of Shawnee Mission.

Widowed for fifteen years, Dick married Susan Heator Graham in 2010. Susan survives him at home. Although their time together was short, they packed in adventures and memories; dancing to classic big band and swing music, visiting with friends and traveling to see the sights of the United States. Dick is also survived by two daughters, Elizabeth Jo Graham (Richard Brown) and Jennifer Jo Graham-Calhoun Pihl, (Tom Pihl) and two step sons, Ron Heator and Shawn Heator and Shawn's son, James, as well as his faithful canine companion, Lucky.

Dick was really quite shy, something many might find surprising. However, he used his engaging smile and provocative and wicked sense of humor to hide his uneasiness when with others. He could tell a good story and make those around him relax and feel comfortable. He loved nature and animals and treasured his friends. He valued loyalty, trustworthiness and hard work. He was generous with his time and friendship. Many will miss the sparkle in his eyes and his joyful spirit.

The family would like to thank the many friends and neighbors who offered support during his illness and Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care for the kind care provided in his last days.

A memorial service will be held at Amos Family Funeral Home on Saturday, May 11, 2013 at 10:00 AM with visitation immediately following.

The family suggests memorial contribution be made to In lieu of flowers, tributes may be made to Wayside Waifs or Great Plains SPCA.