Richard Frank Graham

Richard Frank Graham, 96, son of Theresa and Leo Graham, was born May 16, 1926, in Portland Oregon. He passed away peacefully on June 7, 2022, in Portland, Oregon. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Leo and Robert; a half-sister, Mary; a daughter, Erlasue; a grandson, Robert; and his wife, Erla.

Richard left school to enlist in the Navy and serve our country during World War II. He was called to fight again during the Korean War. After which, he worked in the shipyards at Metra‐Steel, until he retired.

Richard was, above all else, a family man. He met his wife Erla, in Portland, where he was living with his family. They were married Sept 7, 1948 – she was just 18. Although he was a soldier and worked many years in the shipyards, at home he was a father to their eight children, a builder when the house needed additions, a mechanic when the car needed repairs, and an committed husband when his wife needed assistance with one of her projects – from constructing wooden dolls to beading authentically designed outfits.

Their 60 year marriage not only braved eight children, but also yearly gardens, countless Volkswagon vans, and many camping trips which included Pow-wows and rock hunts. No one was ever left behind, however after 60 years, Erla preceded Richard in death in 2009. Since that time Richard lived his remaining years peacefully with family in Rainier and Portland.

He is survived by his children, Frances Graham in Thailand, Theresa Chavan of Portland, Richard Graham of Columbia, Mo., Timothy Graham of Hillsboro, Ore., Mary Graham of Portland, Cynthia Graham of Rainier, and Tamara Graham; 14 grandchildren; and six great‐grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m. June 28 at Hudson Cemetery, 72900 Larsen Road, Rainier, OR 97048. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of choice.