MADISON - Charles Edward "Ed" Graham, age 86 years, passed away at home with his children by his side on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2013.
Ed was born at home on Feb. 12, 1927, in Henry, S.D., to Charles Earl Graham and Leah Ruth (McKay). He graduated from Watertown High School in 1945, whereupon he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in June at Fort Snelling, Minn., serving as a cook and radio operator, and was discharged at Fort Sheridan, Ill., in 1946. After Ed completed his military service, he returned to Watertown, S.D., where he was joined in marriage with his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Ellen Perry, on Aug. 31, 1947. Ed was a member of Concord Lodge No. 13 A.F. & A.M. in Watertown, and Elks Lodge No. 410 in Madison.
Ed and Phyllis moved to the Madison area in January, 1960, when Ed was offered the opportunity to be one of the founders of the Monona Grove State Bank. Initially serving as the head cashier, he quickly worked his way up to become executive vice president and member of the board of directors, a position he held for many decades. After retiring, Ed and Phyllis moved to the warm weather of Vero Beach, Fla., where they spent 20 happy years enjoying tennis, bridge, and each other.
Ed is survived by his children, Gail (Larry) Lennert and Stuart (Dianne) Graham; and his grandchildren, Jack and Elli Lennert and Colin Graham. He is further survived by brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of almost 65 years, Phyllis; and by his sister, Aileen Eva Fox.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2014, at LAKE EDGE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST in Madison, where he had served as a deacon and trustee.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Autism Research Institute, 4182 Adams Ave., San Diego, CA 92116.
Arrangements by: Cremation Society of Milwaukee; Greenfield, Wis. (414) 384-2424
