Gary Michael Graff

Gary Michael Graff, age 76, of Elgin, IL, passed away on October 18, 2025. He was born September 26, 1949 in Chicago, IL to his loving parents, Conrad and Albina (née Kolton) Graff.
Gary proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Oriskany, from 1966 to 1968, demonstrating courage and commitment in the face of great challenge.
Gary shared a lasting connection with Darlene (Graff) Batwinski (Ted), the mother of his children. Though life took them in different directions, they remained lifelong friends and shared a deep respect for one another.
In his later years, Gary was cared for at the Illinois Veterans Home in Manteno, where he found comfort, companionship, and dignity surrounded by those who understood the bonds of service and sacrifice.
Gary faced many personal struggles and lived courageously with mental illness. Even in his hardest moments, he held fast to his faith in God-a faith that gave him comfort, hope, and the promise of peace beyond this life.
Gary loved movies of every genre, music of all kinds, and good food. He also had a passion for collecting-everything from keepsakes to curiosities-which often drove his daughter Dawn a little crazy, but always made his family smile. These small joys reflected the unique and simple pleasures that brought him happiness throughout his life.
Gary is survived by his brother, Conrad Graff; his children, Dawn Soto, Misty Coryell (husband Dean Coryell), Vanessa Rogalla (husband Mark Rogalla), and Michael Graff (partner Michelle Carraway); his grandchildren, Rachel Soto (partner Yulonda Skipworth), Mitchell Coryell, Carter Coryell, Kennedy Coryell, Truman Coryell, Wilson Coryell, Robbie Rogalla (wife Kayla), Brittany Rogalla, Alexa O'Neil (husband Alex), Thomas Rogalla, and Caitlyn Graff; and his great-grandchildren, Brooke Rogalla and Zealand Graff. He also leaves behind extended family members and dear friends who will remember him with affection and kindness.
Though Gary's path in life was not an easy one, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now free from pain and at peace in the loving presence of his Savior. He will be remembered with quiet tenderness, understanding, and enduring love.
Visitation will be 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Thursday, October 30, 2025, and will continue from 10:00am until funeral service at 12:00pm, Friday, October 31, 2025, at Symonds-Madison Funeral Home, 305 Park Street, Elgin, IL 60120. Rev. Tim Perry will be officiating.
Interment to follow at 2:30pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL 60421.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Gary's name to organizations that support mental health awareness and compassionate care.
Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.
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