Joseph R. Graff, 81 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born January 1, 1943 in Niagara Falls, to the late Joseph P. and Catherine (Ulrich) Graff. He is preceded in death by a brother, Robert Graff.
Joseph was a proud United States Army Veteran. He retired after 43 years at Batavia Daily News and was a longtime member of the Printers Union. Mr. Graff wan an avid outdoorsman that loved to hunt and fish. He belonged to Batavia Archery Club, Batavia Rod & Gun Club and was a NYS Bow Hunters Education Instructor.
His family will fondly remember him as a master gardener. Joe loved classic cars and restored a 1967 Pontiac GTO with is son. He was a family man that loved to be around his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Geraldine A. (Miller) Graff of Batavia; children, Caryn (Randy) Havens of Batavia, Joseph M. (Erin) Graff of Stafford, Kristen (Kevin) Brown of Pittsford; siblings, Joan (Ron) Gerhardt, Phyllis (David) Krais both of Florida, William Graff of Georgia, sister-in-law, Rosemary Graff of Warsaw, 7 grandchildren, Cameron, Tyler, Gabrielle, Gianna, Lila, Aden and Adley, along with several nieces and nephews.
Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 4 to 7pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. A 9:30am Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at Resurrection Parish, 303 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.
