John William Graham, 93, passed away peacefully, August 31, 2023. Funeral services will be held September 14, 2023, at 11:00 am, at the United Methodist Church, 102 South 8th Street, Estherville, Iowa. Viewing is 9:00 am – 11:00 am with the service beginning at 11:00.
John was born in Paton, Iowa, to John Wilson Graham and Alice Leola (Ladd) Graham. He grew up in Harris, Iowa where he attended and graduated from Harris High School. John continued his education at Buena Vista College, graduating with a degree in Education. It is there where he met his wife, Elizabeth Carter. John and Elizabeth were married in 1953.
He started his career in Archer, Iowa, teaching music. He worked in education his entire career, enjoying positions as teacher, Elementary School Principal and School Superintendent. After his retirement, John loved to fish, golf and attend plays at the Okoboji Summer theater.
His love of music stayed with him all his life. John played clarinet with the Northwest Iowa Jazz band, Sun City Concert band in Arizona, and sang in the church choirs.
John was a beloved brother, husband and father. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Wilson Graham and Alice Leola (Ladd) Graham and his sister Margaret (Graham) Hromatko. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; sister, Rua (Graham) Egdorf; son, James, and wife Susan Kuecker; daughter,Mary Graham; son, Dr. Jeffery Graham and wife Amy; granddaughters, Erin Graham, Allison Graham and husband Minwoo Cho; grandson,Eric Graham; and great-grandson,Eric Graham II; as well as many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Northwest Iowa Jazz Band.
Online condolences may be offered at www.henryolsonfuneral.com.
