Gary Graham

Gary Louis Graham, 70, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.
Born on July 26, 1954, in Roanoke, Virginia, to Eldora and Earl Graham, Gary joined his older sister, Pamela Sue, in a home filled with love and movement. The family relocated several times before ultimately settling in Aurora, Colorado, where Gary would put down deep roots.
While attending Aurora Central High School, Gary joined the Civil Air Patrol and discovered a lifelong passion for aviation. After graduating in 1972, he pursued further studies at Miami Dade College before beginning a long and dedicated career as a ramp serviceman with United Airlines.
In 1974, Gary married the love of his life, Karen L. Carpenter, in Aurora. Their journey together began in Chicago, Illinois, where they welcomed their first daughter, Amber, in 1978. The family soon returned to Aurora, where they built a warm and loving home and welcomed their second daughter, Christie, in 1981; completing their family.
Gary cherished his role as the only man in a household full of strong, vibrant women. He was overjoyed to later welcome sons-in-law Miguel and Josh into the family in 2002 and 2005, respectively. His heart was fullest when surrounded by his four grandsons Sam, Teagan, Jack, and Trace who brought him immeasurable joy and pride.
He will be remembered not only for his dedication to family and work, but also for his incredible wit, infectious sense of humor, and unwaveringly positive attitude. Even in the most difficult times, Gary had a way of making others smile and bringing light into the room. His humor was quick and clever, and his optimism was deeply genuine; qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Gary dedicated 40 years of service to United Airlines. Retirement didn't stick the first time, and he returned to work as a hotel shuttle driver near Denver International Airport before retiring once more to enjoy life at a slower pace.
A man of many interests, Gary found joy in flying (and sometimes crashing) RC airplanes, playing drums, and picking up the bass guitar in a local band. He and Karen traveled extensively, especially cherishing their time exploring the U.S. by RV and falling in love with Italy, their favorite destination.
Gary and Karen shared a remarkable 50-year marriage. Against all odds and the doubts of others, they built a lasting partnership grounded in love, loyalty, and mutual respect. Through every challenge, including Gary's health struggles, Karen remained faithfully by his side as his constant caregiver and unwavering support.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents, sister Pamela Sue, and several beloved cousins. He is survived by his devoted wife Karen; daughters Amber (Miguel) and Christie (Josh); grandsons Sam, Teagan, Jack, and Trace; nephews Sean (Paula) and Dan; great-nephew Oliver; and great-nieces Adison and Pyper; and beloved cousin Sue Crowder (Mike)
A celebration of Gary's life will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at the Little Chapel in the Pines, with interment and a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Gary's memory be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities, which was an organization close to his heart.