Irma O. Graham

Irma O. Graham December 20, 1913- February 9, 2007 Irma O. Graham passed away Friday, February 9, 2007 in Grand Junction, Colorado. Irma was born to William and Emma (Keim) Heap in Lenzburg, Illinois. She had one sister, Vernice Groh who preceded her in death. Irma graduated from Lenzburg Consolidated School in 1929. She then attended high school in Marissa Township and in 1931 served as valedictorian of her graduating class. After graduation, Irma went to St. Louis where she received her Registered Licensed Nursing degree from St. Luke's Hospital. She served as medical supervisor at St. Luke's Hospital, and later as Obstetrical supervisor at the University Hospital in Columbia, MO. She was on the Faculty of Monticello College in Alton, Illinois, and at Stephens College in Columbia, MO. While in Columbia, she attended the University of Missouri. The highlight of her career was being chosen to work in New York assisting in research in the field of immunology under the guidance of Dr. Cocoa of Lederle Laboratories, Dr. Locke of Mellon Institute, and Dr. Charters of Stephens College. She married the love of her life, Fred E. (Gene) Graham, on August 4, 1940. During World War II she worked at Evanston Hospital in Evanston, Illinois and in Joplin, Missouri. They later moved to Colorado Springs. To their union was born a son, Fred E. Graham II, and a daughter, Kathryn (Graham) Carlson. Irma's husband and son preceded her in death. Surviving members of her loving family include her daughter, Kathryn and son-in-law Tim Carlson; grandchildren; Becky, Ben and Danny Carlson, Ryan Graham, and Lindsey (Josh) Bard , her two great grandchildren; Luke and Hannah Bard, her daughter-in-law, Kathleen Gueymard and two nieces, Ruth Christmann and Grace Bollman. Irma will be remembered as an independent woman who spoke her mind, and was proud to have given so much of her life to her family duties. She often spoke of being shaped by those we meet; and for 93 years, she continued to touch our lives. Irma, a woman of strong faith, was a member of the Colorado Springs First United Methodist Church where a memorial service will be held in the chapel on Sunday, February 18, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Mesa County Public Library Homebound Program, 530 Grand Avenue, Grand Junction, Colorado 81501.