John Russell Graham

GRAHAM, John R. Passed away November 17, 2014 at Sacred Heart Hospital. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin, uncle, brother and friend. John was born at home July 9, 1938 in Spokane, Washington to Lloyd and Ruth Graham. He attended North Central High School and received an AA degree from Kinman Business School. He served in the Navy aboard the USS Lafayette County in the Pacific (1956-57), and served until 1962 in the Army National Guard. John married Sally (Olinger) Graham in 1958 and they were married for 56 years at the time of his death. He worked his entire post-military career in the Spokane concrete industry, owning two businesses and working closely with area contractors and business people. He was respected and loved by all who knew him in the industry. John was active in the Spokane Valley Eagles Aerie 3433, serving as treasurer and volunteering with weekly bingo. He also was a member of the Valley VFW, the Get-Along Sam’s Camping Club, and was a member of Local 72 Cement Finishers Union. John played several instruments including the guitar, and he loved to sing, passing his love of music to his children and grandchildren. He loved to dance, and bowled in multiple leagues most of his life. John enjoyed camping, snowmobiling and motorcycling. He especially loved the Seahawks, the Mariners, and watching Gonzaga basketball. John was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill, and sister Harriet. He is survived by wife Sally, sister Betty Albright, three children Dolores (Jeff) Humiston, Joni Marie (Richard) Jeffries, Andrew (Christina) Graham, adopted daughters Barbara Gumm and Patty Amby, grandchildren Brandon (Lacey), Dolores, and Ryan (Rachel) Jeffries, Kristen Graham, Deanna (Eric) Grainger, Clint and Casey Humiston, great-grandchildren Luke and Natalie Jeffries, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.