About
Joel Graves Obituary
Joel Elliott Graves of Fenton passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at the Michigan Veterans Home in Chesterfield Township. He was 78 years old.
Born September 11, 1947, in Flint he was the son of Joel and Veronica (Duhon) Graves. On February 27, 1971, he married Wanda Jean Ellis in Fenton and together they spent 54 years together. Joel was a proud Vietnam Veteran where he served in the Unites States Marine Corps and was a recipient of a purple heart as well as a Silver Star. He worked as an electrical contractor and was a Master Electrician and owned and operated Graves Electric for 40 years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
He is survived by his wife Wanda Graves; son Joel Graves and his wife Stephanie; five grandchildren, Miranda, Joel D., Lydia, Theodore and Mason; a sister Martha Trombley and her husband Paul as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Erik Graves.
Cremation has been held. Entombment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted.
The family would like to thank the Chesterfield Veterans Home and Michigan Palliative Care and Hospice for their exceptional care and support.
In memory of Joel contributions can be made to [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
People and places connected with Joel
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Joel Graves
Make a Donation
in Joel Graves's name
How to support Joel's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Joel Graves's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored