Stephen Reed Graham

Stephen Reed Graham Reed Graham passed away on March 30, 2009. He was born June 1, 1947, to Jane Reed Graham and Gerald R. Graham. A proud lifetime resident of Los Gatos, Reed grew up on Placer Oaks Drive in the Graham family home built on his granddad's orchard. He attended St. Mary's Elementary School in Los Gatos, Bellarmine College Prep, and Santa Clara University. Reed began his career at Reed & Graham, Inc., the family owned business, in 1971. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, MaryEllen; parents Gerald R. and Allene Graham; brother Gerry Graham; sisters Nan Graham and Jane Sheth; step sister Timmy Lumby; sisters-in-law Paula Graham and Carol Rearri; brothers-in- law Butch Lumby and Asish Sheth; children Kate Rascon, Kim Threeths, and Steve Graham; sons-in-law, Rene Rascon, Kenny Threeths; daughter-in-law Christina Graham; grandchildren Sophia, Nathan, Alex, Jessica, and Vivienne; and hundreds of Los Gatans who were fortunate to have known him. He had many passions in life. Reed began coaching youth sports at St. Mary's School in Los Gatos while attending Bellarmine College Prep. While in the service, Sergeant Graham coached the combined military football team at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany. Upon completion of his military obligation in 1971, Coach Graham returned home where he satisfied his desire to become a teacher/coach and began a successful 16 year stint as Head Coach of the Los Gatos Pop Warner football team. When Reed retired from active coaching, he organized and oversaw the football yardage chain crew at Los Gatos High School home football games. To further his want to work within the community, Reed joined the Los Gatos Lions service organization in 1975. He enthusiastically participated in all Lions Club charitable activities where he earned the respect of all who worked with him. In 1987, Reed was elected President of the Lions. Reed saw another opportunity to help others as part of his Lion's service responsibilities and began working on the Los Gatos Children's Christmas Parade. He realized improvements could be made in the organization of the parade and for all of his accomplishments, was honored as Grand Marshall in 1987. He was appointed Chairman of the Children's Parade in 1990. Reed also served twelve years on the Los Gatos Saratoga Recreation Board, a perfect combination with the chairmanship of the Los Gatos Children's Christmas Parade. Reed refined another passion to perfection. Those who were fortunate to have tasted Reed's secret Tri Tip Barbeque recipe couldn't wait to get more. Reed's barbeque crew would cook and serve for any occasion, at any location, at any time, at the drop of a hat, often times cooking for thousands. His crew annually cooked a barbeque lunch for the teachers at Los Gatos High School. Reed was a son, husband, father, brother, grandfather, true friend, community server, leader, listener, confidant, coach, Giants lover, 49'er fan, organizer, chef, and a man who would give his all to anyone in need. A memorial service to celebrate his life, his loves, and his passions will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2009, at 9:00am at St. Mary's Church in Los Gatos. The Family requests donations be made to the Santa Clara Diabetes Association "Kids to Camp", Lions Club Charities, or donate time to the charity of your choice in honor of Reed. Arrangements by Darling-Fischer Chapel of the Hills in Los Gatos.