Robert C Graham

Robert C. (Bob) Graham, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on September 26, 2025 in Naples, Florida at the age of 88. He was born July 7, 1937 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to his loving parents Willard and Marion Graham.

Bob graduated from Iowa State University with a BS in Chemical Engineering, and maintained life-long friendships with his fraternity brothers of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Bob married the love of his life, Martha, in 1963 and together they had two children, Cathy and Jennifer. Cathy is married to Henry Bandet, and Jennifer to Ryan Ness. Bob was a devoted grandfather to his four grandchildren, Anna Hefl in, Sophie (Jon) Hart, Graham Ness, and Kate Ness.

For the last week of his life, Bob was also a great-grandfather to Isobel Rose Hart. Family was always important to Bob. In addition to the family he and Martha created, he was the eldest of three boys, sharing many wonderful memories with brothers Tom (Linda) Graham, and Don (Linda) Graham. He was also a proud uncle to Bobby (Matt) Graham, Leah (Dan) Snierson, David Graham and Justin Graham. Bob dedicated many years of his life to building Graham Tire Company. He was well respected in his community of Spencer, Iowa, and known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and integrity. In addition to the many leadership positions he held, he was an Eagle Scout and was honored by the Boy Scouts of America with the distinguished Silver Beaver award.

As a person who lived life to the fullest, Bob's faith in God was always a steady and guiding force in his life. In addition to spending time with family, Bob was happiest in a sailboat, racing against his friends on Lake Okoboji, improvising on his sax or piano, and bringing his 'A game' to the golf course. He loved to travel and shared many memorable trips with Martha and their family. He was also a master on the grill, bringing friends and family together for his bbq ribs and chicken. Bob will be remembered for his kind and generous nature, his competitive spirit, his quiet strength, his love for his family, and his warm smile. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Bob at Lake Okoboji in June 2026. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Spirit Lake, Iowa; Okoboji Yacht Club Sailing School; and the Dementia Society of America.