Robert S. Graft, 89, of Bentleyville, PA died Thursday, August 27, 2009 in his home surrounded by his family.
He was born April 28, 1920 in Everson, PA., a son of the late Boyd E. and Mary E. Beck Graft.
Mr. Graft was a Sergeant in the U.S. Army who served his country in the Philippines during WW II as a truck driver, delivering vital supplies to the front lines.
After returning from over seas, Mr. Graft was a Gradall Operator for over sixty years, most recently with Connelly Construction. He was also previously a mechanic at Bentleyville American Truck Stop and Dewey Millich Trucking.
Mr. Graft was a skilled wood worker. He took pride in shaping and forming a solid block of wood into his favorite things, especially trucks and heavy equipment. He and his wife also liked to travel. He could often be seen enjoying the day on his front porch. Most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family.
He was a member of the Pleasant Valley Presbyterian Church in Clarksville, PA, a 33 year member of the Bentleyville American Legion Post #165, and a member of the National Pike Steam, Horse, and Gas Association, where he often sold his wood crafts.
On August 31, 1995 he married Ester Matuck, who survives.
Also surviving are seven children- Jimmy Graft (Judy) of Scottdale, Virginia Chain (John) of Scottdale, Furman Graft (Diane) of Bentleyville, Bonnie Hess (Keith) of Beallsville, Roberta Rose (Lynn) of Washington, Mary Miller (Matthew) of Bentleyville, and Faith Lenik (Ronald) of Finleyville; five step children- Joseph, James, and George Lucy, Barbara Lancaster, and Brenda Hockmuth; one brother- John Graft (Audrey) of Florida; nine grandchildren- Billie Jo Dolan, Robert Hess, Eva Nolan, Erica Rose, Brandon Hess, Edward Rose, Kelly Miller, Ryan Graft, and Joren Hess; nine great grandchildren, many step grandchildren and step great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased, in addition to his parents, is one step son- Charles Allen Lucy; former wife Maxine Graft; one brother- Russell McWells; and one sister- Marjorie Sowinski.
Friends will be received from 7-9 PM Saturday and 2-4 and 7-9 PM Sunday in the Greenlee Funeral Home, 619 Main Street, Bentleyville, where funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Monday, August 31, 2009 with the Rev. Ford Campbell officiating. Interment will follow in the Beallsville Cemetery where full Military Honors will be accorded by the Bentleyville American Legion Post #165.