96, died April 30, 2018, son of Clyde A. and Marguerite Lehan Graven. He is survived by his loving wife Maura Clark Graven, whom he married August 19, 1943 at Portsmouth, Virginia. Clyde attended St. X High then the University of Tennessee on a football scholarship before joining the Navy immediately following Pearl Harbor. He saw action aboard the USS Alabama in both the North Atlantic and South Pacific campaigns. He was later assigned to the USS Lumen, seeing action in the South Pacific and Okinawa. He earned five battle stars. Graduating in 1948 from Xavier University, Cincinnati, he later attended the FBI Academy in Quantico, becoming an FBI agent for twenty-one years. He was assigned to offices in Chicago, Detroit, Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo, Marquette, Louisville and Cynthiana. He retired from the FBI in 1972 and became Undersheriff of Kalamazoo County. He was later elected Sheriff, serving until 1984 when he retired to Kentucky. There he did investigative work for the State. He received many awards during his career, including ten commendations from J. Edgar Hoover, the prestigious Liberty Bell Award and Offender Aid and Restoration National Award. He served on the Substance Abuse Council, American Red Cross Board, Kalamazoo Probation Enhancement Program, United Way Board and taught Christopher Motivation Course 1960-65 throughout Michigan. He received commendations from both the US and Michigan Senates and Houses and recognition for his service from President Ronald Reagan. In retirement he served as President of the Deer Park Neighborhood, Louisville, then on the Board of Palomar Neighborhood, Lexington. For many years he served on the Board of Directors of both Birthright and Catholic Charities of Lexington. He also served six years as Treasurer of the Knights of Columbus, Bluegrass Chapter, and as President then Secretary Treasurer of the Society of Former FBI Agents, Bluegrass Chapter. He is also survived by his beloved children, Mary Beth (Tony) Peddicord, Lexington and Sean (Doreen) Graven, Bronson, MI and his dear grandsons Brian (Tracy), Aaron (Wendy) and Michael (Dana) Peddicord, and great grandchildren Andrew, Alex, Emily and Grace. Also surviving is brother Robert (Mary), Louisville. He was preceded in death by brothers Paul and William and sisters Mary Thornbury, Doris Noe and Margie Kraher. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and dear friends to mourn his passing. A celebration of his life will be held at Pax Christi Church, Lexington, KY on Friday May 4, 2018 with visitation from 9:30am to 10:45am, with a Funeral Mass at 11:00am. Inurnment and reception to follow at Pax Christi. Memorials may be made to Birthright, Catholic Charities or Pax Christi Church, all of Lexington. Arrangements by Clark Legacy Center in Brannon Crossing. www.clarklegacycenter.com

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Published by Lexington Herald-Leader on May 3, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Clyde Graven

Sponsored by Lexington Herald-Leader.

14 Entries

John ( Jack ) Judd

May 6, 2018

My Condolence to the Graven Family. I had the privilege to serve with Clyde at the Kalamazoo County Sheriff Department when he became the Undersheriff then when he became Sheriff. I remember him to be a very fair leader and person to work for. I lost contact with him after he retired from the Department and my wife and I moved to Florida after I had serve 32 years at the Dept. " God Bless "

alan scherer

May 6, 2018

Clyde was an incredible teacher to everyone. He and Maura knew the meaning of love and their hearts were always open to everyone.
I celebrate Clyde and the many gifts of life he gave me.
He was a one of a kind , much like my own father...
The world is a better place...

May 6, 2018

We never forgot you and you never forgot us.
Undersheriff Paul Matyas, Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office. God bless.

May 4, 2018

Maura and family, I will never forget the friendship I shared with you and Clyde. He was Sheriff and I worked in the Board of Commissioners' Office in Kalamazoo. You may remember my marriage to Jim Adie in the early 80's. One of my favorite memories of Clyde was the going-away party for Doug Odem, and the fun we had! My heart grieves for his passing, and for you, dear Maura. May that wonderful man rest in peace, and may you hold on to all the wonderful years and the love the two of you shared.

With sincere affection,
Nancy (Hunt) Kirkbride

Kara Murphy Schmidt, MD

May 3, 2018

Clyde Graven was one of the most amazing men who ever lived. My son is fortunate to call him Godfather. Although he is only 9 years old he has heard about his Godfather over the years, but when he heard of Clyde's many achievements he was astonished by all that was accomplished by one man. Clyde was a member of the WWII generation that we think of as heroes who had a strong sense of honor, dedication to our country and service to our communities. They contributed in big ways fighting wars with personal sacrifice, but also in small ways helping grow new churches and neighborhoods, planting trees and naming streets. As a young student I awakened one morning to discover that I couldn't find my keys to get to class. Clyde gave me a ride, and I will forever be grateful that my son has the example of a Godfather who is distinguished as a war hero and FBI agent, but charitable enough to give a stressed out student a ride to class. Clyde and his lovely wife Maura, we will always hold close to our hearts! So grateful to know you! Kara Murphy Schmidt, MD

Fran Moore, CDP

May 3, 2018

Clyde was truly a gentle man who showed incredible love and kindness to his many friends and colleagues. I feel blessed to have known him and his lovely wife, Maura. My prayers are with her and the family as they mourn the death of this wonderful man.

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Gary & Anita Sielatycki

May 3, 2018

Clyde was always a great family friend. My mom and dad had so many wonderful memories over the years. Even after my dad's passing, Clyde and Maura continued to be there for the family. My mom had so many great memories of trips she got to go on because of your thoughtfulness by including her. Even though we are not related to Clde and Maura, we feel as though they are family. That's just the way they are, always loving and caring for others. Maura, you are not alone in your loss. We love you both.

Sharon Vandrick

May 3, 2018

Uncle Clyde was a wonderful man, a veteran, husband, father, brother and friend to many that loved him so. He lived life fully, enjoying everyday and spreading love and happiness wherever he went. His love for Aunt Maura was evident and an inspiration. They had a very adventurous life making many wonderful friends along the way. He will always be in my heart. Rest in Peace Uncle Clyde, I love you.

Pat Wade

May 3, 2018

Have known Clyde and Maura for some years. Clyde was always personable to each and everyone he met. Know that my prayers are with Maura and the family.

Diane Doyle

May 3, 2018

I knew him as my Uncle Clyde. He was always smiling and always interested in everyone he met. His love for Maura and his family was evident to all. He will be missed. He made the world a better place. Diane Doyle

Fran Glass

May 3, 2018

Maura, I send you my strongest condolences on the loss of your beloved Clyde. I knew you as Winchell area neighbors back in the early 1980s. You were both always so sweet and friendly to me, and I have NEVER forgotten you! Clyde once showed me a $50 winning instant lottery ticket when I stood behind the 2 of you in line at the Eagle grocery store, and gleefully encouraged me to "get in the game!" You once helped me carry bags from the bus stop to my house. Such caring, loving neighbors you were! Your wonderful marriage was an example to us all. I am still here on the corner of Applelane and Frederick, holding down the fort. :-) Bless you, and R.I.P. Clyde. Fran Glass

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