Jerry Duane Graf

With profound sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of Jerry D. Graf, whose life was defined by his unwavering love for his family, generous spirit, and steadfast faith. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his love and legacy remain in our hearts forever.

Jerry was born on March 6, 1946, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Fred W. and Bonnivere J. (Welsh) Graf. He built a life centered around family, faith, friendship, and service to others. On September 16, 1967, he married the love of his life, Diane Fuze, in South Bend, beginning a devoted partnership that would span nearly six decades.

Along with Diane, his devoted wife of 58 years, Jerry is survived by their two children, Ragen (Shawn) Carlton and Ryan Graf, both of Mishawaka; his cherished granddaughters, Adelynn and Andi Carlton; his sister, Janet (Michael) Burnett of Lakeville; his sister-in-law, Florita Graf of South Bend; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Darrell Graf.

Jerry grew up on his family's farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and appreciation for the outdoors that remained with him throughout his life. He graduated from Lakeville High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. Following his military service, Jerry earned a degree in Industrial Management from Purdue University.

Jerry worked at A.M. General for several years before spending 21 years with GRQ of Indiana, where he retired as a Facility Engineer. Throughout his career, he managed industrial sites across the United States, leading the revitalization of former manufacturing facilities into thriving industrial and business parks. His vision and expertise helped breathe new life into communities by attracting new businesses and creating employment opportunities. In addition to his work with GRQ, Jerry successfully owned and operated his own company, Great Lakes Trading, specializing in the buying and selling of industrial equipment, earning the respect of colleagues throughout the industry for his knowledge, integrity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Jerry was a proud member of the American Legion in Lakeville.

In his free time, Jerry enjoyed attending industrial equipment auctions, fishing, collecting Oliver farm equipment, traveling, exploring history through museums, and taking great pride in caring for his yard and harvesting from his garden. Above all, he treasured time spent at his family's farm, returning often throughout his life to enjoy the land, reflect, and reconnect with the place that shaped him.

Jerry's granddaughters, Adelynn and Andi, were his greatest joys in life. He was immensely proud of the intelligent, compassionate, hardworking, and grounded young women they have become. He rarely missed an opportunity to be on the sidelines watching them compete, especially on the volleyball court, taking great joy in their determination, teamwork, and commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. He especially cherished the thoughtful treats they loved to bake for him, a simple expression of the love they shared. More than anything, Jerry cherished the time he spent with them and found immense happiness in watching them grow into exceptional individuals. His unwavering love, encouragement, and pride in them were evident to all who knew him.

Jerry's life was profoundly touched by the kindness and generosity of so many people. He and his family are eternally grateful to Amy and Mary Kessler for the extraordinary gift of life made possible through Amy's selfless kidney donation. The family also extends its heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Anne Huml and her team, Dr. Stephen Ellis and his team, and Dr. Daniel Abel for their exceptional medical expertise, compassionate care, steadfast guidance, and unwavering dedication to Jerry's health and well-being throughout his journey.

To all of the physicians, nurses, caregivers, family, and friends who offered support, comfort, and encouragement along the way, thank you. Your kindness and compassion carried Jerry and his family through life's most difficult moments and will never be forgotten.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2026, at St. Hedwig Catholic Church, 331 S. Scott Street, South Bend. Military honors will follow the Mass.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, at Palmer Funeral Home–Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend. Visitation will also be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass on Monday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in memory of Jerry D. Graf to support Kidney Medicine at Cleveland Clinic, P.O. Box 931517, Cleveland, OH 44193. Please indicate that your gift is made in memory of Jerry D. Graf. Donations will directly support the work of Dr. Anne Huml, helping her continue to provide exceptional care, hope, and healing to kidney patients and their families.

Memorial contributions may also be made to the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran's Center, 747 S. Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46601, or online through Center for the Homeless donation page. Please write "MVC" in the note section to designate your gift to the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran's Center.  Online condolences may be offered to Jerry’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.