Jon Paul Graber

Jon Paul Graber, 76, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2023 in his dream home overlooking the turquoise waters of Big Glen Lake in Glen Arbor, Michigan. After enjoying two months in the Florida sunshine, he returned home to share his love and final thoughts with family and friends after a yearlong struggle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was born in Medina, Ohio on March 24,1947 to the late Edwin and Ruth Graber. He was raised on a farm before moving to East Grand Rapids in eighth grade. Jon graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in 1965 and went on to become a Michigan State University Spartan, graduating with a B.A. in accounting in 1969. Jon always said moving to East Grand Rapids was one of the best things that ever happened to him. He worked for Ernst and Ernst while receiving his CPA license and went on to become the CFO of Kindle Furniture Company, his workplace for over 25 years. Jon is survived by his wife of 52 years, Gloria Graber who he often referred to as “you know, that woman I love!”, his son Jason (Elizabeth) Graber, daughter Stephanie (Bobby) Sutherland and four grandchildren, Colebrook and Hawthorn Sutherland and Scarlett and Jackson Graber. Having grown up in a family of four boys Jon is also survived by three brothers: Tom (Kathy) Graber, Ed ( Judy) Graber and Bob(Marilyn) Graber, as well as many nieces and nephews. He always told his brothers that he knew he was his mom’s favorite son! Jon so appreciated and loved many longtime friends that he considered part of his family including Jack and Cindy Woller and their children. Apart from his home, Jon’s favorite place to spend time was at Sugar Loaf: The Old Course. He will always be remembered for his love of golf frequently playing it or watching it on TV. He appreciated the friendships of his golf buddies at Sugar Loaf and his great friend Mark. His last days were spent watching The Masters Tournament and taking pride that the winner spelled his name J O N. Driving by Jon’s home, you would see a meticulously hand shoveled driveway, (People often asked if he had a heated driveway) or a well-manicured lawn which reflected his need for order in all aspects of his life. He will be remembered for his brilliant blue eyes, his wonderful sense of humor, his wisdom, his strong ethical beliefs, being a role model for doing what is right and his kindness to others. Jon often noticed and appreciated bright colors, so the family is asking for friends to wear bright colors and comfortable attire to the celebration of his life being held at The Leland Lodge on April 23rd starting at 1 P.M. with refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, please choose something you have wanted to do either personally or with family to honor Jon’s memory. Just make sure you remember the twinkle in his eye as he sends his quick smile thanking you for remembering him. A special thank you to the staff at Cowell Cancer Center and Hospice of Michigan.

Jon Paul Graber

March 24, 1947 - April 11, 2023