Alan Lloyd Graves

Alan Lloyd Graves passed away at his home in Seattle. He was born in Louisville, KY to David Alanson Graves and Celeste Raterman, but spent most of his childhood in Coral Gables, FL. He moved to Seattle in 1991.

Alan graduated from Coral Gables High School and entered the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point. Long Island, NY in 1963. His class graduated early in 1967 during the Vietnam war, and Alan was initially employed by Lykes Brothers Steamship Company to support the US Navy transportation of wartime supplies to Vietnam. Alan reached Chief Engineer status and traveled to ports in South America, Africa, Far East and South Pacific until his retirement in 1989. Alan loved his career at sea traveling the world, and often stated, “I often marveled that I got paid for doing this”.

After retirement from sea, Alan completed a paralegal program at SFU in Francisco, CA, moving to Seattle in 1991. He was employed as a stationary engineer at Seatac Airport, King County Court House and UW Medical Center in the Facilities and Management Department.

Alan continued his love of ships by volunteering as a Chief Engineer on the historic Seattle steamship, the S/S VIRGINIA V, for over two decades. He mentored many volunteers, sharing with them his knowledge of the mechanical workings of a 100-year old ship.

He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, creative mind, politically pointed sense of humor, love of music of 50’s and 69’s, and devotion to family and cats.

Alan is survived by his wife Marjorie Graf; his sister Diana Steinberg (Gary) Tallahassee, FL; brother William Graves, Leisure City, FL; nieces Jamie Tropeppi and Angela Pinto (Josh) and their children, all living in Florida; and nephew Michael Steinberg (Alisha), Crestview, FL. Alan and Marj shared amazing trips to China, Tibet, Argentina, Antarctica, and areas within US.

Donations in Alan’s memory may be made to the Virginia V Foundation, or the charity of your choice. A memorial of Alan’s life will be planned for the spring of 2024 at which time his remains will return to the sea.