of Alexander, AR
October 18, 1921 - January 12, 2013
Henry Bernard Grafe, age 91, of Avilla, went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, January 12, 2013. He was born in Liepzig, Germany on October 18, 1921 to the late Albert and Freida Grafe. Mr. Grafe came to the United States at six weeks of age with his parents. He was a WWII US Marine Veteran. He was a member of Avilla Zion Lutheran Church in Avilla and worked as a dairy farmer and painter.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his spouse, Wanda Grafe, one son, Henry B. Jr., two grandchildren, Jeremy and Cassie Grafe, and two sisters, Anna Smith and Martha Praasterink.
Survivors include his three sons, Jim Grafe, Lynn Grafe, and Mike Grafe and wife Debbie, all of Avilla; nine grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, two sisters, Lena Thompson of Michigan and Meda Scott and husband Bud of Avilla, many nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be 10:30 A.M. Thursday, January 17, 2013 at Avilla Zion Lutheran Church with Pastor Michael Schleider officiating. Interment will follow at Avilla Zion Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 6:00 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home in Benton (501-315-4047).
Memorial contributions may be made to Avilla Zion Lutheran Church, 299 Avilla East Road, Alexander, Arkansas 72002.
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14 Condolence(s)
Jean Bray Moore
Thursday, January 17, 2013
The Grafe's were wonderful neighbors and their children were like my brothers. Mr. Grafe was such a good man. May Gods peace be with you all.
Jim & Carolyn Weddle
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Grafe family. Bernard was a great Christian man. He was truly an inspiration to us all. We will really miss him.
Beth Marshall Lane
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
My early memories of Sunday School are of Bernard Grafe who was a wonderful teacher and so patient with us. We have lost a strong Christian but heaven has to be rejoicing to have him there. Much love to the family.
Marilynn Hoffman
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Bernard will be missed by all who knew him. The way he lived his life, showing his love for his fellow man, was a major indication of the love he had for his Lord. Bernard was truly a man of faith and inspired all of us who called him friend. He made me happy, and I loved to hear him laugh. All of us will miss him and look forward to seeing him again one day.
Priscilla Messick
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Thoughts and Prayers are with all of you. Mr. Grafe will be missed dearly. I love you all. I'm here if ya'll need anything.
Love Priscilla and Tommy
Priscilla Messick
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Thoughts and Prayers are with all of you. Mr. Grafe will be missed dearly. I love you all. I'm here if ya'll need anything.
Love Priscilla and Tommy
eric evans
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Sorry Jim for the loss my prayers are with you in this time of healing. GOD be with you my friend
Connie Helmich
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
A good and faithful servant. Prayers to the family. May God's hand of peace be with you.
Jana Evans
Monday, January 14, 2013
Uncle Huttie will be missed. So sorry for the loss of such a wonderful christian man. Heaven gained an angel. Love and prayers to the family.
Jessica Bardales
Monday, January 14, 2013
Papaw we love you and miss you.
Rebecca Grafe
Monday, January 14, 2013
Love and miss you papaw, you was the greatest and strongest man i have ever known. Love you bunches, Becky, Noah, Kaylynn, & Annalicia.
Rob & Peggy Seamon
Monday, January 14, 2013
Jim and Brian, and families, we are sorry to hear of the passing of your father and grandfather. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Bill McLehaney
Monday, January 14, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss.
Michael Williams
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Prayer to the family, we will shure miss Papaw, he is the Nicest person i ever met and i am privledged to have met him...