Kenneth Graham

Kenneth D. Graham, age 89, of Millcreek, passed away Monday, June 9, 2014, at St.Vincent Health Center. He was born in Erie, July 10, 1924, son of the late Robert and Ethel May Abbey Graham. Ken graduated from Millcreek High School in 1943 and served in the U. S. Army during WWII. He was a member of the 10th Mountain Division and earned the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. while fighting in Italy. He also attended classes at New Mexico A&M College, while serving in the Army. Following his return from the service, Ken was employed as a mechanical engineer at General Electric, Erie Resistor, Wilson Research, and Eriez Magnetics. He then worked for Emsco in Girard, before his retirement. Ken lived a quiet life and had a lifetime interest in all things mechanical. His work as a designer and mechanical engineer satisfied that interest. He followed his father's interest in model building, especially model aircraft and ships. A model of the USS Wolverine that he built is displayed at the Soldiers and Sailors Home here in Erie. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Alverna M. Critchfield Graham; a sister Billie Loris Slagter, and a brother Gene R. Graham. He is survived by his daughter Peggy Graham of North East; son Terry Graham and his wife Margaret of Arizona; three grandchildren Trevor Smith and his wife Becky, Shane Smith, and Jillian Confer and her husband Greg; six great-grandchildren, and one great great-grandchild. Friends are invited call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home on Sunday from 4:00 until the time of the service at 7:00 p.m., with Rev. Dan Owen, officiating. Burial will be private in Laurel Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Pennsylvania Soldiers' and Sailors' Home, 560 East 3rd Street, Erie PA 16507.