Richard “Dick” Graham
Age 89, of Flint, MI and Mims, FL, passed away on September 19, 2024. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Richard’s Tribute Wall at detroitcremationsociety.com.
Richard Lee Graham was born on April 30, 1935, in Lennon, Michigan, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edgerton and Irene (Ganssley) Graham. Richard was known for his happy, caring, loving, generous, and thoughtful nature. He always had a smile on his face. He graduated from Northern High School in Flint, Michigan, and furthered his education at Michigan State University. Richard proudly served at Eglin Air Force Base with the Air Force, dedicating himself to his country with distinction. Professionally, Richard was a quality control engineer at Chevrolet Manufacturing in Flint, Michigan, until his retirement. His commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the quality of the vehicles produced. Richard was a devout member of Resurrection Reformed Church in Flint, Michigan, and St. Andrews Methodist Church in Titusville, Florida. His faith was evident in his participation in the choir, where he found great joy in singing. An avid Michigan State University fan, Richard enjoyed tailgating at both home and away games for many years. He was a dedicated member of the Downtown Coaches Club in East Lansing. Richard and his wife, Jan, enjoyed traveling extensively in their motorhome, spending winters in Titusville,
Florida, and summers in Michigan.
Richard is survived by his daughter Julie (Steve) Kopko of Rockvale, TN; son Rick (Cory) Graham of Flushing, MI; grandchildren Chad (Jen) Kopko, Jeremy (Holly) Kopko, and Steven (Princess) Kopko, all of Tennessee, and Jessica Thompson of Flint, MI; and great-grandchildren Melody, Asher, Harper, and Brady. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ronald Graham; his wife, Jeannette (Miles) Graham; daughters, Jo Lynn Graham and Evana Simons; and granddaughter, Ayla Pastori. The family would like to thank the Hurley Medical Center nurses on 5 West and Heart to Heart Hospice for their support and care.
A service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held at Resurrection Reformed Church, 5225 Calkins Rd, Flint, MI 48532, on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Doug Kiel.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Resurrection’s memorial fund in Dick’s name, honoring his legacy and support for the community.
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Being a Florida neighbor of Dick i will miss our many short conversations at the mailbox on Nancy ave. He seemed to always have a positive attitude. So sorry for the family’s loss.
I am a member of St Andrew UMC in Titusville FL and met Dick there. He was a wonderful person and so full of life. We always enjoyed his company and conversation. And his laughter was contagious. He will and is greatly missed by his St Andrew UMC family.
Dick and Jan were friends from 1955 when he and my husband Mac were in the military. We didn’t have much money so Friday nights were hamburgers and cards. When Dick got out of the military he and Jan went back to Michigan and we stayed in Florida. Our friendship continued over the years with visits and winter stays in Florida. I will cherish the memories.