Reinhold Graff, of Vulcan, Alberta passed away November 27, 2002 at Vulcan Extendicare at the age of 89 years.
Reinhold was born October 12, 1913, at Westerham, Saskatchewan, one of twelve children born to Ludwig and Maria Graff. He attended school at Westerham until grade four and then helped his father on the family farm. Reinhold began working the land when he was just seven years old, driving four horses and a gang-plow. As a young man in 1936, he purchased his own farm near Estuary, Saskatchewan, and in 1940 moved to Meadowlake, Saskatchewan, where he established a mixed farming operation. In 1974 he retired and moved to Killam, Alberta, living there for one year before moving to Champion in the fall of 1975. Reinhold enjoyed his retirement. He loved to work in his garden and spent many hours sport fishing. In 1986 he purchased a home in Kirkcaldy, residing there until July, 1994, when he moved to the Peter Dawson Lodge in Vulcan. He spent five months at the High River Hospital Long Term Care Centre in 1999 before returning to Vulcan as a resident of Extendicare.
While in school Reinhold enjoyed playing baseball and football. As a young man he played the cornet and also sang in the church choir. He was extremely fond of hunting, fishing and gardening. He was known to tell many a story of hunting moose in his yard while living at Meadowlake. His family recall growing up with him teasing them and then rejoicing in laughter. Reinhold treasured his friendships and took them quite seriously. He was also known to enjoy a friendly argument with people, leaving the room with a smile on his face. He enjoyed traveling and in 1985 accompanied his brothers, Rudy and Henry, and their wives on a holiday to the Yukon and Alaska.
Reinhold is survived by his loving brother Rudolph (Helene) Graff of Vulcan, two sisters-in-law Mildred Graff of Calgary, Anne Graff of Camrose and numerous nieces and nephews.
Reinhold was predeceased by four sisters and brothers-in-law Mary (Conrad) Deal, Emma (Bill) Davidson, Julia (Dave) Deal, Lizzie (Peter) Davidson, an infant sister Lydia Graff, a sister-in-law Alvena Graff, three brothers Louis, Henry and Dan, two infant brothers Henry, Andrew, and his parents.
A Funeral Service was held, Saturday November 30, 2002 at 1:30 P.M. at the Champion Evangelical Free Church, with Pastor Tim Hill officiating.
Casket Bearers were Doug McIntyre, Elmer Deal, Gordon Fisher, Clarence Graff, Nathan Graff and Bert Graff.
Interment at 4 P.M. at Vulcan Cemetery.
If friends so desire tributes in Reinhold’s memory could be made to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Directors. Telephone 485-2633. E-mail condolences to vulcanfuneralhome@hotmail.com.