Jim was a great friend to my late husband Tony.  When Tony died unexpectedly in 2021, Jim was there with notes of comfort and always a word of support and that continued on for the last 3 years.  I always appreciated
the support  and kindness Jim shared with me.  
He was a generous and kind man.  
Barbara Beugelsdyk

To each of Jim‘s brothers and sisters and family. My sincere  Sympathy to each and everyone of you. You were so blessed to have him as your big brother. I know how close you all are and that is a beautiful thing. You will miss him every day until you meet again. He was a good man. I hope it gives you comfort to know that he is now home and all is well with his soul. In the last three years, I have lost three very important men in my life. My son, Evan, my husband, Mike, and my big brother Monte. I so know what you are feeling. It hurts. Those we love remain with us because love itself lives on. As long as there are memories they  will live on in our hearts.  May the peace of the Lord be with each and everyone of you and remain with you forever. My love and prayers, Cheryl Williams.

Mr. Graf was 1 of my favorite teachers in 7th & 8th grade about 1976. His classroom games made Latin fun.
I still use Latin frequently to decipher 'English' words.
Rest in peace.
❤️

Mr. Graf was my Latin teacher for 3 years at Northfield School of the Liberal Arts from 2004 to 2007. He was our school Headmaster there as well. Every morning at Convocation, he would ask God for us to be more selfless and less selfish. His prayers meant everything to me in middle school and high school.

“Gallia est omnis divisa in partes tres” 

Mr. Graf (what I always called him as his student) was one of my all time favorite teachers.  He inspired in me a love for languages, especially Latin. How he managed to be a loving “uncle” and still brook no nonsense from us adolescent boys is a tribute to both his warm, caring personality and his teaching skills.

I was fortunate to correspond with him after 30 years away from Wichita when I could thank him for all he had done. He will be missed but appreciated by so many of his former students!

I am deeply saddened to learn of Jim’s death.
Jim and I have been best friends since we were 15 years old.  I will truly miss him.
Jim was the most generous person I ever met.  If he only had a dollar to his name and he saw a person in need Jim would give them his dollar.
Jim was a devout Catholic.    He practiced his faith openly .  
Jim, you will always be in my prayers,
May God hold you close to Him.
Love you and miss you my dear friend.
Phil Blick

Jim Graf was among my first teachers, my Spanish teacher, at this fledgling attempt at private education in Wichita. One day he took time to fill the board, literally. with all his aunts ands uncles and first cousins--wow, so that's what a Catholic family looked like! He was such a good teacher--very knowledgeable, but also very patient with  those who did not know what he did. So engaging and so humorous--and could the man both command the paint on a basketball floor AND command a dance floor! So light on his feet and so graceful both in body and in spirit. What a role model he was for me!
Tom Pruit

Jim Graf made a huge difference in my life. He was my Latin teacher for 2 years and my 6th grade teacher at Wichita Collegiate.  Back then Collegiate was quite small and basically he was a member of my family.  The memories are so many ! I still remember my Latin endings because of the jingles he put them to, movies he took us to, birthday parties he threw for us and naming his first daughter after me . She was born on my 16th birthday . The class of 1971 always included him in our reunions. I don’t think we ever had a get together without including Jim Graf and Rick Koch. Devon and Jennifer, please know  that your Dad was so special to so many people. He will truly be missed and remembered with love forever.
Devon Ritchie Rothwell

"Mr. Graf" was one of the most influential teachers I ever had - at Collegiate or after.  He was fair, creative about how he taught and engaged students, and a role model for all.  All that were fortunate to have him as a teacher and friend were truly blessed.  My heart goes out to you, his family, and all those who will be missing him in the coming days.  Sending you comfort - Jennifer Mull

I am so sorry for your loss. I met Jim in a grief retreat back in the late ‘80’s.  I believe it was called Beginning Experience. Jim was a calming presence for me. He had a gentle spirit and a nice smile. I’d seen him a few times over the years and he was always warm and welcoming. I’ve no doubt he will be missed by all . Rest in peace Jim.

My deepest sympathies and prayers to all. May the perpetual light shine upon  dear Jim.  I’m certain there will be quite a reunion in heaven with so many extended family members.  Love and prayers.

I'm going to miss my birthday calls.  I always looked forward to it.  I'm going to miss you and your warm and kind soul love you Jim

I am very sorry to hear about Jim's  passing, he was a wonderful person, he is also my 1st  cousin and was my best man at my husband and my wedding back in 1961 on October 14th. We never got to see much of each other, but I always remembered  him as being a good person. May you rest in peace and my prayers are with you. Your cousin Clara Dinkel

such an interesting and kind man! The world is a smaller place without you in it, Jim. Thank you for helping me with my book and thank you for your friendship. We will all see you soon enough. Look out for us here until we get there❤️

Northfield School of the Liberal Arts 

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OBITUARY

James "Jim" R. Graf

December 11, 1941 – September 17, 2024

DeVorss Flanagan-Hunt Mortuary

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