James Lester Graver

In the song of life, James Lester Graver was surely the composer. A very observant man who would rather spend his time creating than talking, James preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around him made sense. In fact, he depended on his sensory world to provide him with concrete data. A free spirit, James believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. He seemed to know what fit and what didn’t fit in everything he did. James perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to him, yet he lived with a definite sense of purpose. He was a man who was always ready to share his creations with those around him.

James was born on February 10, 1934 at St. Vincent's Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. His parents were Howard and Maude Graver. James was raised in Indiana. As a young child, James was optimistic in his outlook. He sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply his creative energies. James rarely called attention to himself, but when he did speak out, his message was clearly understood by those around him.

Early on in his family relationships, James showed that he was a tolerant and flexible person, and he got along fairly well with everyone. He was raised with one sibling. He had a brother, Gary. He was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

A person who was sensitive to others’ feelings, modest and tolerant, James had the ability to become completely devoted to another when that affection was returned. James met the love of his life, Alicia Layva Blanca, and married June 1, 1985 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

James was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to his children. These emotional bonds made him as much playmate as parent. He gave his family unconditional love and kindness, sharing his artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. James was blessed with three children, two sons, Danny and David, and one daughter, Debbie.

James was a Marine Vet. He was in the USMC-11 Vietnam. James saw action for 3 tours of duty in Vietnam. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of E-7 Gunnery Sargent. He received several awards recognizing his for him heroism including a Navy Unit Commendation Medal with combat "V" Pistol Marksman, National Defense Svc. Medal with 1, Airforce Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 7, Vietnam Civil Action Ribbon 1st Class, Navy Unit Citation with V, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm and Frame, Meritorious Unit Citation, Navy Air Medal, Meritorious Mass, Good Conduct Medal with 4. James’s fellow soldiers saw him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

James’s faith was important to him. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Husband of Mary Catholic Church in Las Vegas. James's passionate commitment to upholding his values placed him at home in his religion, where he took comfort in the company of others who believed as he did.

Because he loved the world around him, James enjoyed traveling and going away on vacations. It was an opportunity for him to kick back and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. James put his personal trademark on any leisure planning that he undertook. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, at their condo, and in Cancun.

James was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of James’s favorites was Precious, a Maltese dog. They were best friends for 15 years.

In retirement, he found new pleasure in traveling with his wife, brother-in-law Pepe and sister-in-law. Even in retirement, James continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. In these later chapters of his life, he became active in the community, feeling fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him and simply enjoying what he had worked so hard to attain.

James passed away on September 10, 2016 at Nathan Adelson in Las Vegas, Nevada. James’ passing was due to a fall. He is survived by his beautiful wife Alicia, one brother, one son, and five grandchildren. Services were held at Palm Southwest Mortuary. James was laid to rest in Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, Nevada.

James was a good man, a kind man, and a practical man who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. He leaves behind him a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. James always had much to give and was able to make those connections in his life where his gifts were appreciated. James was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember James Lester Graver.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Southwest Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.