Mr. Franz Gunter Graef 's Obituary
Franz “Frank” Gunter Graef, 67, of Lake Forest, CA, passed away on Monday, August 18th after a brief but courageous battle with duodenal cancer. Frank was a beloved husband, father, brother, and uncle who will truly be missed by many.
Frank was born to the late Michael and Maria Graef on January 3, 1947, in Haid, Austria. He and his family relocated to Cleveland, OH in 1952. Frank graduated from Cathedral Latin High School in 1966 and then served in the U.S. Army from 1967 until 1969. Part of Frank’s service in the Army included being a military police officer. Frank married the love of his life, Sharon Myer, in 1975. Frank and Sharon moved to California in 1976, settling in Lake Forest in 1987.
Frank retired in March 2012 after over 40 years of being in the newspaper industry. He started his career at the Cleveland Press and continued in the industry after relocating to California. Frank began as a district manager for the Long Beach Press-Telegram and worked his way to Director of Single Copy Sales for the Press-Telegram, the Torrance Daily Breeze, and the Los Angeles Daily News. He enjoyed working with his colleagues and was well respected.
Nothing made Frank happier than spending time with his loving family and friends, and also restoring his 1968 Oldsmobile 442. With his infectious smile, a twinkle in his eye, and signature thumbs up, Frank approached all aspects of life with generosity, kindness, and humor. He was the quintessential gentleman with a heart of gold.
Frank is survived by his dearly loved wife, Sharon, and children, Jennifer (Grant) Lee of Lake Forest, CA, and Adam (Chelsea) Graef of Irvine, CA. He is also survived by his sister, Joanne Graef of Cleveland, OH; and brothers, Michael Graef of Kenosha, WI and Tony Graef of Kissimmee, FL. Frank is predeceased by his brothers, Lothar Graef (Maryanne Graef) and Hans Graef. Frank also leaves behind his beloved aunt, cousins, nieces, and extended family.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the American Cancer Society to help find a cure for cancer. To make a donation, please visit Frank’s webpage at: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/Events/MosaicofHope?pg=tgreeting&fr_id=9910
(Type Franz Gaef on the search box to find his page)
Service at Riverside National Cemetery Staging Area 2. A reception will follow at the family’s residence in Lake Forest.
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