Richard "Dick" Joseph Graver

Richard "Dick" Joseph Graver, born on July 18, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, in Northbrook, Illinois, surrounded by family. The beloved son of Thomas and Mae Graver, Dick grew up as a proud Southside Irishman alongside his siblings, Jack Graver, Tom Graver, Sally Star, and Shirley Kowal.

Dick’s early education began at St. Leo’s Catholic School and continued at Campion Jesuit High School in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. He went on to earn a degree in Civil Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology and later achieved an MBA from the University of Chicago. These academic accomplishments laid the foundation for a distinguished career at the City of Chicago, Lock Joint Pipe Company, and as a longtime Financial Advisor with Edward D. Jones.

A true patriot, Dick served his country as a First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to duty and honor.

Dick was married to Gloria C. Grask, who preceded him in death, and together they had five children: Paul Graver (Patti, Carina), Katie Clemons (Dan, Mike), Mary (Ron) Breitbach, Susan (Derek) Harmer, and Neil (Melissa) Graver. On August 23, 1975, he married Carol P. Cmiel at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Barrington, Illinois. Carol’s first husband, Dennis R. Cmiel, preceded her in death.

Their union, almost 50 years ago, marked the beginning of something extraordinary, as they brought together his five and her three children—Craig (Joyce) Cmiel, Joy (Dave) Hambourger, and Kevin (Eileen) Cmiel—to create their own version of "Eight is Enough." This blending of families was the start of a unique and enduring bond that stood the test of time, uniting two households into one and bringing countless people together in love and support.

Richard was a cherished grandfather to 22 grandchildren: Paul (Lauren), Kevin (Janaye), Aidan, Declan, Neil, Trevor, Abbey, Denny, Lauren, Marley, Gracie, Tyler (Nicole), Casey (Justin), Shawn, Callie, Connor, Cameron, Griffin, Mason, Georgia, Gloria, and Grace Lynne; and a proud great-grandfather to 7 great-grandchildren: Austin, Dylan, Logan, Harris, Cooper, Lucy, and Avery. He was lovingly called 'Bopay' by his grandchildren.

His love for family, dedication to others, passion for golf, and strong work ethic were woven into the fabric of every life he touched, expressed through his kindness, humor and commitment. Dick valued his Catholic faith and used his boundless energy supporting a variety of volunteer programs both in the Chicagoland area and Southwest Florida. These qualities formed Dick’s legacy, connecting, uplifting, and leaving a meaningful impact on his family and all who knew him.

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 9:00 am until time of funeral mass 10:00 am at St. Norbert Catholic Church, 1809 Walters Avenue, Northbrook, IL 60062.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Richard’s name to St. Martin de Porres Outreach Ministries of Fort Myers at: https://smdpoutreach.org/, a cause that was close to his heart.