Gerald R. Grafius

Gerald R. Grafius
Gerald R. Grafius, age 93, of Erie, passed away Wednesday, September 4, 2024. He was born in Erie on July 14, 1931, son of the late Charles and Margaret Grafius.
Jerry was a graduate of Academy High School and attended Gannon College. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War as a Chief Petty Officer and when in the Navy Reserves, he was a Sea Bee. He retired after 37 years in the Navy. Jerry was a Tool Engineer first for Automation and Device, then Swanson Erie Corp. and then American Sterilizer / AMSCO prior to his retirement.
Jerry was an active member of St. James R.C. Church, the Gem City Gun Club, the Siebenbuerger Club, the Erie Maennerchor Club and the American Legion Carl Neff Post 571. He played slow pitch softball with Nunzi's team, where they won the City Championship in 1972. Jerry was a master gun and wood crafter and enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. He also treasured his many dogs, including his last one, Buddy.
Jerry is survived by three children, Gerald "Jay" Grafius, Jr. (Marcia), Darrell Grafius (Wendy) and Leslie Clark (George); seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Grafius; one daughter, Susan Cassi; one son, Eric Grafius; and one brother, Charles Grafius.
Friends may call at the St. James R.C. Church, 2635 Buffalo Road, on Tuesday, September 10th, from 9:30 am until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11 am. Interment will follow at Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery with Military Honors rendered by the American Legion Carl Neff Post 571. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ANNA Shelter, 1555 East 10th Street, Erie, PA 16510 or St. James School Athletic Scholarship Fund, c/o Eric and Betty Grafius, 2635 Buffalo Road, Erie, PA 16510.