Robert Joseph Gradt

Master Sergeant Robert Joseph Gradt, USAF Retired., 83, of Prosperity, South Carolina, peacefully died in the arms of his loving wife of 61 years, Sybil R. Gradt on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024, at his residence.
Robert, known to most as "Bob", was born February 15, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York. Bob was a proud Air Force veteran and faithfully served his country for twenty-six years. His dedication and service led him to receive numerous medals to include the Meritorious Service Medal and the USAF Enlisted Club Manager of the Year award. Bob loved watching his family grow up before his eyes; so much that he made sure to photograph every single moment he possibly could. And for that, his family is grateful to have the opportunity to look back at his life through his own eyes.
Affectionately known as "Pops" by his grandchildren, he always made it a priority to attend as many of their events as he possibly could. When he was not capturing memories of his family through the lens of a camera, you could find Bob riding his tractor and spending time in his yard making sure it was JUST right to attract all sorts of wildlife. That he would then, of course, take a picture of to share with his family!
Bob was known to have the loudest laugh in the room. Even those that had not seen him in years could identify him just by hearing his laugh. A laugh he was complimented on by Dick Clark when he had the opportunity to dance on American Bandstand. Bob worked constantly to ensure he instilled in his family the mantra to live life to the fullest.
Over the course of Bob's life, his greatest joy and happiness came from his time with his loving wife, Sybil. He was also especially proud of being great at his job and anything that he put his mind to.
In addition to his wife, he leaves behind his loving son, Lt Col Kevin A. Gradt USAF (Ret) and his wife Shari; his loving daughter, Dawn E. Deans and her husband Shane; his loving grandchildren, Zachary Gradt, Madelyn Gradt, Brennan Gradt, Emma Gradt, Forrest Deans (Allie), and Briana Deans; his great-grandson, Asher Deans and expectant great-granddaughter, Raya Deans. He is also survived by his sisters, Rita Woolley, Pat Dutro (John), Joanne Gradt, and Judeanne Flake (Gary). As well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he has joined his beloved son, Brian Charles Gradt in Heaven along with, brothers, Frank and Paul Gradt, and his brother-in-law and best friend, Joe Woolley; where they are forever together.
As Pops would say "Those we love don't go away; they walk with us every day. Unseen and unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear".
A private graveside service for family will be held, 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Newberry Memorial Gardens, 15127 C.R Koon Highway, Newberry, SC, 29108.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to be made to the National Aphasia Association (P.O. Box 87, Scarsdale, NY 10583 or www.aphasia.org/donate).
Whitaker Funeral Home, Newberry, is honored to serve the Gradt family.