James Lee Graf

James Lee Graf, 78, of Bismarck, passed away on June 2, 2017, at his home, with his wife and family by his side. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, June 8, at Church of Corpus Christi, 1919 N 2nd St., Bismarck, with Rev. Paul Becker officiating. Burial will be held at 1:00 pm Thursday at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Wednesday, June 7, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, where a prayer service will begin at 7:00 pm. Cremation has taken place. James was born August 2, 1938, to Leonard and Maude Grade in Winner, SD. He was raised in Winner and was a proud member of the football, basketball, and track teams for the Winner Warriors High School. He graduated in 1955. After graduation, he attended the University of South Dakota. He returned to Winner to work at the local Ford dealership and met the love of his life, Donna Tideman. They were married on September 11, 1960. He operated a pizza place called The Varsity in Vermillion, SD, where his children (Theresa, Brad, and Shari) were born. He wanted more for his family and decided to sell life insurance for Prairie States Life Insurance Company of Rapid City. He moved his family to Bismarck, ND, in 1971. He bought the family home in 1976 at 1906 Assumption Dr. James “Jim” was a charismatic man who could disarm you with his smile. He was always friendly and outgoing, almost to a point of fault. Jim was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps and was fond of the Semper Fi (Always Faithful) motto. He struggled at times with addiction, but overcame it with perseverance and determination and obtained 17 years of sobriety. Jim enjoyed golfing, working outdoors, and spending time with his family. Jim is survived by his wife, Donna; his children, Theresa, Brad, and Shari; his grandchildren, Tyler, Kane, Gunner and Kayla; and his sisters, Loue and Lavona. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Ruby; his father-in-law and mother-in-law. He will be missed for his kind soul and exceptional humor. God rest, Gentleman James!