Dale Richard Graham's Obituary
Dale R. Graham, born on February 5, 1938, near Thayer, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026, at Pinnacle Park, Salina, KS with his wife, Jeanette, by his side. He was 88 years old.
Dale married Jeanette (Sperry) on March 1, 1959, and together they shared a remarkable journey, living in three countries, ten states, and twenty-three cities throughout their marriage. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanette, and their cherished family: daughter Pam Cook and her husband Calvin (Salina, KS), sons Richard Graham and his wife Regina (Emporia, KS), Randy Graham and his wife Diane (Leicester, MA), and Rodney Graham (Coos Bay, OR). Dale was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and their spouses, as well as sixteen great-grandchildren.
A dedicated educator, Dale served as a teacher and principal for eighteen years before transitioning into a successful career as an accountant, a role he held for twenty-two years before retiring in 2003. In retirement, he found joy in his blade sharpening business, which allowed him to connect with many at horse shows.
Dale was a man of many passions, including fishing, hunting, and barbecuing. He was especially known for his amazing BBQ creations using a large smoker he designed himself. His educational journey began at Thayer High School, from which he graduated in 1955, followed by earning BS degrees in Business and History from Emporia State University in 1959.
A 32nd Degree Mason and member of the Shriners of Tampa Bay, Florida, Dale also served as a Scoutmaster in Holcomb and Waverly for many years and coached girls' basketball at Waverly High School, helping to guide and inspire countless young athletes.
Dale was preceded in death by his son, Ryan, both parents, Neil and Irmel Graham, and his brother, Dean Graham. His legacy of love, dedication, and commitment to family and community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
The family requests that donations be made in his memory to the https://ShrinersChildren.org fund or the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Services to be held at Thayer Christian Church, 8495 Dorn Rd. Thayer, KS 66776 on Monday June 29th . A viewing starting at 1:00 PM at the church will be followed by the service at 2:00 PM.
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