Richard A. Graver, Sr. 81, of Owl Creek Road, Lehighton, passed away Monday, Aug 5, at St. Lukes's Hospital, Bethlehem.
Born in Towamensing Township, he was a son of the late Lafayette F. and Bratrice (Brown) Graver. He was a 1956 graduate of Palmerton Area High School.
He served in the US Air Force for four years before returning home to own and operate Graver's Orchards in Towamensing Township. He also worked at Kriss Pines.
Richard loved being a hard working farmer. He delivered his produce to local grocery stores and also to many homes on his route.
He was a member of St. Paul;s United Church of Christ, Big Creek.
He was also a member of the Pennsylvania Farm Association.
Richard is survived by his three sons, Richard A. Graver, Jr., Leroy H. Graver and Ryan E. Graver all of Lehighton; sisters, Dorothy wife of Donald Strohl of Aquashicola and Monica Johnson of Lehighton. Broter, Wayne Graver and wife Donna of Lehighton; grandchildren, Amy Graver, Richard A. Graver III, Nathan Graver and Skyler Graver; great grandchildren, William and Olivia, also Theresa Servass, who worked at the farm for 35 years and was a companion for many years.
He was predeceased by brothers, Lafayette Jr., Raymond, Ronald; and a sister, Gloria Anthony.
Services will be held 11 am, Friday, Aug 9, at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Big Creek, 414 Old Mill Road, Franklin township, with the Rev. James Robinson officiating. Viewing 9-11 am at the church. Interment with military honors will follow in St. Paul's Union Cemetery, Adjacent to the church. The Edward F. Melber Funeral Home, Jim Thorpe, is in Charge of arrangements.
Published in Times News on Aug 7, 2019
Family Members
Parents
LaFayette Graver
1898–1974
Beatrice A Brown Graver
1913–1978
Siblings
Lafayette H. Graver Jr
1932–2004
Gloria M Graver Anthony
1933–2012
Raymond J Graver
1935–1991
