Walter S. Graf M.D.

July 15, 1917 - October 18, 2015 Giving, gracious, inspirational, and strong in every way, Walter S. Graf was born in New York, graduated high school at age 12, and lived his life serving, teaching, loving and saving the lives of those around him, personally and professionally. A cardiologist, founder and 20-year director of the Daniel Freeman Paramedic Program (the first ever nationally accredited paramedic education program), Dr. Graf was more than an accomplished physician - he was a "Pioneer of Paramedicine" who brilliantly proposed and piloted in 1969 the idea of what we now call ambulances. As a clinical professor for Loma Linda and USC, President of the LA County Heart Association, Chief of Staff of the LA County and Daniel Freeman Hospitals, President of the Cedars Sinai Emeritus Medical Staff, Chairman for both the State of Commission of Emergency Medical Services and the California Medical Association Committee on Emergency Medicine, Dr. Graf left his mark on the world as a legend for transferring critical concepts and medical material, who even into his 90's, already having received countless awards, published material in medical journals. Walter lost his son Dan years ago, and is survived by his wife Joan, his children Carlyn (Mark), Steve (Paula), Jim (Maura), Pam (Jerry), Bob (Kathryn), Mitchell, Becky (Sigerid), Judi (Fred), Barbara, his 19 grand children, 22 great grandchildren and his caregiver 'to the end' John D. He was loved by and held each of them very near and dear to his heart, never missing a beat when it came to their lives and accomplishments. Walter left us knowing and frequently saying that he was the "luckiest man alive," having lived a wonderful and very full life. He will be missed by many, thought of always, and honored forever. Services will be held at Hillside Memorial Park on Friday 10/23/2015, at noon. 6001 Centinela Ave, Los Angeles.