Graves, Dean E. 1922-2009

GRAVES, POHL, OLIVIER

Posted By: Ernie Braida (email)
Date: 1/10/2010 at 17:15:31

Dean Edwin Graves was born July 27, 1922 in Yale, Iowa the son of Lester and Minnie (Pohl) Graves.

He graduated from Pleasantville High School as valedictorian and then attended Central College for two years. During his time at Central College, Dean helped construct the first Tulip Tower. Dean then served in the United States Army during WWII.

He was united in marriage to Rose Olivier on April 5, 1942 in St. Louis, Missouri. Following his honorable discharge, Dean and Rose returned to Pleasantville where they resided for the rest of their lives.

Dean was a very accomplished woodworker, and was employed in the antique restoration and cabinet making business most of his life. Dean was known across the United States for his craftsmanship; he restored five antiques for Terrace Hill and two pieces for the Oval Office. He was also an accomplished lapidary and had polished and shaped many stones and agates through the years.

In their spare time, Dean and Rose loved to dance, and through the years had attended many dances in Des Moines. Dean also served as a Boy Scout leader and was a former Grand Marshall of the Fourth of July parade.

He was a member of the Mason’s and a life member of the American Legion.

Dean passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2009 at the Pleasant Care Living Center at the age of 86 years, 8 months and 9 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Ronald; brother, Marion and his wife, Rose.

Those left to cherish his legacy include his son, Richard of Dallas, TX and 3 grandchildren: Andrea of Dallas, TX, Jeff (Rita) Graves of Ft. Dodge and Wendy (Mike) Brown of Reno, NV.

Burial: Not given

Bertrand Funeral Home April 2009