David Leon Graves

David was born in Dunkirk, NY, the eldest child of Howard A. and Dolores L. (Anderson) Graves on July 23, 1949. He lived in Dunkirk and attended Dunkirk schools until enlisting in the U.S Air Force in 1970.

During his 20 plus years in the U.S.Air Force David was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base for basic training and tech school and then off to Dover, Del. This assignment was followed by a year in Thailand and then reassignment to Delaware. After Dover, David went to Rheinmain Air Force Base in Frankfurt, West Germany. Upon returning stateside he was stationed at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, N.Y. His last assignment and the post from which he retired was Dover Air Force Base. Having grown to feel Dover was home he chose to remain there upon his retirement in 1990.

In retirement, David was not idle. He worked for Delaware Technical and Community College at the Terry Campus and at Delaware Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery during those years as well as a mobile home park and Marino’s. He also developed friendships, one of which was a steadfast and loyal friend who was incredibly supportive, especially during his last few months, Norris “Joe” Sparks. David’s family will always be grateful for all that he did for their loved one.

The excellent care that David received at Kent Memorial Hospital and the kindness shown by doctors and nurses there, especially during his final hours, will never be forgotten.

David was predeceased by his parents; an infant brother, John H. Graves; a nephew, Scott Davis; and a brother-in-law, Michael “Roll” Laurito.

Surviving are his children: Melanie M. Graves of Brocton, N.Y., and Jess D. Graves of Forestville, N.Y.. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Derek Merrill, Cody Merrill, Dakota Couchman, Chance Couch-man and Sierra Couchman. In addition, he is survived by two great-grandchildren: Meadow Couchman and Dean Couchman. His surviving siblings are: Sue Laurito, Leonard Graves, Carol (Dale) Davis, Hugh (Cindy Kozlowski) Graves, and Kim (Paul) Kozlowski; along with several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be prior to interment at Willowbrook Cemetery in Dunkirk at the convenience of the family.