John William Graf

John William Graf, 87, of Manchester, MD, passed away on Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at BridgingLife Dove House, formerly known as Carroll Hospice, in Westminster, MD.  Born on March 26, 1934, on the family farm in Millers, MD, he was the son of the late William Henry Graf and Treva Viola (Therit) Graf.  He was the loving husband of Patricia Ann (Stiff) Graf, they were married for 68 years.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his children: Bonnie Hollingsworth and husband Joe of Westminster, MD, Debbie Eskra of Frankford, DE, John W. Graf II of Upperco, MD, and Denise Hansbrough and companion Tim Lare of Hampstead, MD.  He is also survived by three granddaughters: Christine, Amanda, and Megan, one great-granddaughter: Averie Rose, his sister: Dorothy Yingling of Manchester, MD, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son-in-law: Frank Eskra and sister: Mildred Heindel.

John attended Manchester school, he left school to help work on the family farm.  He was a self-employed carpenter.  He enjoyed fishing, gardening, yardwork, wood working, watching NASCAR Races, Fox News, The Price is Right, and loved traveling with family and his friends. He loved animals, especially his dogs and his grand-dog, Ryder.  He enjoyed spending time playing ball and doing puzzles with his great-granddaughter, who he always enjoyed talking about.

John was a hard worker, protector, and excellent provider.  When he was younger, he loved working on the family farm.  He was a private and quiet man. He enjoyed the life he had. He loved to work around the house, always fiddling with something up until the very last day when he said, it was time to call the ambulance that took him away forever from the home that he built.  He will be missed dearly.  He did not die from COVID, just from his body giving out from the many years of hard work.

His wishes are to be cremated and have a private ceremony at home, where his ashes will remain.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Carroll County, 2517 Littlestown Pike, Westminster, MD 21158 or to BridgingLife Dove House, 292 Stoner Avenue, Westminster, MD 21157.

Arrangements are by the ECKHARDT FUNERAL CHAPEL, P.A., Manchester, Maryland.