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Robert Graap Obituary

WESTERLY - Robert J. Graap, 84, of Westerly, Rhode Island and formerly of Bedford Hills, New York, died surrounded by family and friends on Friday, February 7th, 2025.

He was born in the Bronx to John Sr. and Mary Graap and was raised in Tarrytown.

He graduated from Archbishop Stepinac High School in 1958 and Iona College in 1962. After graduating from college, he joined the US Navy and served from 1963-1965. He worked 28 years for Westchester County, retiring as a supervisor for the Probation Department. After retiring, he worked part-time for the Town of Bedford as a Code Enforcement Officer until moving to Westerly, RI in 2005.

On February 15, 1969 he married Susan Ruane at St. Teresa's Church in North Tarrytown, NY. They eventually settled in Bedford Hills where they raised their daughter.

Bob was a member of the Hope Hose Fire Company #1 in Tarrytown and the Bedford Hills Fire Departments in New York. In Westerly, he belonged to the Irish Coastal Club, Westerly Yacht Club, and the American Legion H.W. Merrill Post 16.

Bob led a full life with a variety of interests which included gardening, reading, surfcasting, traveling and riding motorcycles. He loved to tell stories and jokes and knew a little bit about everything which came in handy while watching Jeopardy each night. He was also a gifted musician who played multiple instruments. Most recently, he was the keyboardist for a local band, Silver and Spice.

He is survived by his wife Susan of 55 years; his daughter Katherine Katie Marmol (Joseph); grandson Miles; brother, John Jr.; twin brother Reverend Augustine Ken; sister-in-law Barbara; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Charles.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Transfiguration Catholic Church in Tarrytown, NY at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306. (718) 987-1931.

Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly is in care of the arrangements. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Westerly Sun on Feb. 12, 2025.

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Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Jack+MaryAnne+Jenny+Ellen+Kay

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Joseph Bilak

February 24, 2025

Sorry for your/our loss. We had a lot of good times and laughs together...Will opt for the Tunnel to Towers...Theresa is at the National Cemetery in Port Canaveral, which is in Mims, Fl.Her epitaph reads Lived, Loved, Laughed...Hang in there....Joe B.

Jim and Debbie Burke

February 14, 2025

Dear Susan and Katie we offer our deepest condolences. Bob was a special man, a joy to be around with a terrific sense of humor. Most of all he was a dear friend who we will sorely miss. He was a very talented musician, and I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to play with him over the years. We will forever treasure those beautiful memories. Sincerely, Jim and Debbie Burke

Ken Burton, Sr.

February 14, 2025

Our Deepest condolences to Susan Grapp and family for loss of their beloved Robert Graap. A fine man of devotions and integrity to his family and nation. He served in the military and continued on to service with the American Legion as an officer of the H W Merrill Post 16, in Westerly, R.I.
Rest in Peace, Dear Comrade ! We are proud to have served with you! Thank You! God Bless, Amen!
American Legion, Post Adjutant, Ken Burton, Sr.

Oonagh & Alan McClean

February 14, 2025

Sue, Katie & extended family, so sorry to learn of Rob´s passing RIP. Rob was a true gentleman . I have fond memories of him playing the piano. McClean family (Ireland)

Mary Geissler Brady

February 13, 2025

Susan and Family.. What A Great Guy Rob was and he will be missed by many...Sending Prayers and Hugs

Betty Ann and Len Pace

February 13, 2025

Dear Susan, We are so sad to hear about Bob's passing. He lived a joyful and blessed life. May the love of family and friends help you through this deeply sorrowful time.

Joseph Romanello

February 12, 2025

Bob was a great man who was beloved by all who were lucky enough to know him-including myself! My deepest condolences to Susan and their great family.

Rebecca Nyahay

February 12, 2025

One of my most fond memories of Bob is when he would play the piano at my parents´ parties and we´d have a sing along. This went on for years all throughout my childhood and I´ll never forget the joy he brought through his music and laughter. He will be greatly missed.

Sally & Chris Lawlor

February 12, 2025

We are sure that Rob is making wonderful music and telling great stories in heaven.

Melita Motherway

February 12, 2025

Sue, I am so sorry for your loss. Bob was a wonderful man. He brought so much to our Club, with his humor, his music, his entertaining stories! May you find peace and comfort in the coming days.
Melita

Eileen Brogle

February 12, 2025

Beautiful obit.

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59 Spruce Street, Westerly, RI 02891

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