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BORN
1943
DIED
2025
UPCOMING SERVICE
William Graff Obituary
07/12/1943 - 12/31/2025
William "Bill" Graff passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.
A native and lifelong resident of San Francisco, Bill was deeply rooted in the city he loved. He was raised in the Mission District on Treat Avenue before his family moved to the Richmond District. Although his life and career took him throughout San Francisco, the Mission District always held a special place in his heart, and it was there that he chose to settle upon retiring from teaching.
Bill is preceded in death by his beloved son, Jimmy. He is survived by his sister, Debbie; his daughters, Elizabeth and Mardoux; seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of great pride and joy in his life.
He was a graduate of Saint Peter's School, Lowell High School (via Saint Ignatius), and the University of San Francisco. Bill proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War.
Following his return from military service, Bill began a lifelong career in education. He taught at his alma mater, Saint Peter's School, where generations of students came to know and respect him as "Mr. Graff." Teaching was not simply a profession for Bill-it was a calling, and his impact on his students extended far beyond the classroom.
Bill had a deep love of baseball, and was an avid SF Giants fan. At age 12, Bill began his life long career of vending by selling newspapers outside Seals Stadium. His vending career continued for decades and he vended at all Bay Area venues including Seals Stadium, Candlestick, the Cow Palace, and Oracle Park. He worked World Series games, Super Bowls, college sporting events, concerts, circuses, and rodeos, often making it a family endeavor. His family joined him for historic moments including The Play (Cal–Stanford) and the 1989 World Series.
Bill lived a life defined by service-to his country, to his students, to his family, and to his community. He will be remembered for his dedication, work ethic, and the lasting influence he had on countless lives across multiple generations.
A service will be held at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery at 5810 Midway Road, Dixon, CA on February 17, 2026 at 11:30am.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for William Graff
Memories and Condolences
for William Graff
23 Entries
Rochelle Magdangal
January 26, 2026
Mr. Graff was not my 8th grade teacher, but he was involved in so many of the activities at St. Peter´s that I participated in. He was one of my favorites. Whenever we would run into each other we would talk forever.
I´m so happy he was part of the great people and memories I created there.
Sending his family and friends prayers and condolences.
Rest in peace, Mr. Graff.
Leti Carcamo Cottrell
January 19, 2026
Mr. Graff was my 8th grade teacher (c/o1986). He was the first teacher that saw true potential in me and believed in my leadership. I will never forget the day he told me in 8th grade that I would one day be teacher, and he was so right. My deep condolences to his family.
Lourdes
January 16, 2026
Mr. G was a teacher who became part many families, including mine. He became a dear friend. He even received a license to officiate my wedding.
I will forever be grateful for his role in initiating my career in education, his friendship and support.
Thank you, Mr. G!
Angelena Broussard-Barnes
January 16, 2026
Mr. Graff was one of my favorite teachers at St. Peter's (Class of 89). He always found a way to make us laugh! I would also always smile whenever I'd see him at Candlestick park or an event at the Cow Palace...such an awesome person. Rest in peace, Mr. Graff.
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Regina Pineda
January 16, 2026
Mr. Graff was one of the best teachers I was fortunate to have at St. Peters. Condolences to his family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Daniel Mendez
January 16, 2026
My condolences to the family. I was in his first class when he started teaching in 8th class of 81. He was so funny and caring. He took us camping as a class once that was my first time ever going camping. I remember when he threw an eraser at me yelling " don´t you ever stop talking" it was funny. It became a tradition with my family to always stop by at the Giants game and say Hi.
Class of 1987 8B
January 13, 2026
A true humanitarian, a realist, an honest man, loyal friend till the end. Always willing to help. A blessing to have you in this life time. Graff until we meet again. Thanks for everything. Love you forever.
America
January 13, 2026
Mr. Graff the greatest teacher We are deeply saddened by the loss. He was a remarkable teacher and an even greater man who always went the extra mile for his students. His kindness and dedication made a lasting impact on us all, and he will be truly missed
Dorothy Ryan Reed
January 13, 2026
Rest in Peace, Bill. I remember Bill fondly from Grammar School at St Peter's, Class of 1957. He & my twin brother were good friends then.
MercyLou Zamora
January 12, 2026
RIP my beloved co-worker at cow palace. Had great times talking abt the pass experiences you had with my children that you taught at ST. Peter´s. Will always hold a special place in my heart. You were a great person.
Michael Brookman (nephew)
January 12, 2026
He was one of the hardest workers I've ever known! Always in good spirits at the ballpark or arena. He kept us all going. Fond memories of "Woody" and the family enterprise.
Sonia Corea
January 12, 2026
Forever missed, BEST TEACHER ever.
Roberto Jimenez
January 11, 2026
My heartfelt condolences to his family. Mr. Graf was an absolute gem in our lives with a heart of gold. Friends and I carry fond memories of him from St.Peter's. Rest in peace.
Samuel Reveles
January 11, 2026
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Mr. Graff was a great teacher.. He will be missed
Josette Berroteran-Leiva
January 11, 2026
Mr. Graff was my 8th grade teacher at St. Peter's school. He ws one of the best teachers I had. My condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Jeffrey Cariaso
January 11, 2026
Deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Graff.
He was my 8th grade teacher at St. Peter´s ( 1986 ) and helped me get a job vending at Candlestick.
Colleen McCarthy
January 11, 2026
I taught with Bill at St. Peter's in the 1980s. He was a very caring and warm person. He and his family are in my prayers.
Colleen
Cathy Ramacciotti
January 10, 2026
Thank you for being a friend and neighbor. Always sharing a smile when you saw us at St. Peter´s and Candlestick.
The Ramacciotti Family
Juana Rojas
January 10, 2026
My condolences to his family Mr Graff was my 8th grade teacher. I loved his classes and he made learning fun. I was the new student in 8th grade and he was so kind to me. I have such good memories of this time in my life. He will be dearly missed. May he rest in peace.
Cathy Scarborough
January 9, 2026
RIP Bill Graff, you will always be remembered. And missed for your kindness.
Jonathon Collins
January 7, 2026
Bill was my father-in-law for 29 years. He welcomed me right into his family. The man absolutely loved baseball and his Giants. He will be missed by many.
John Donohue
January 7, 2026
Bill was a great colleague and easy to share. He showed his service to many St.Peter's students, great chatting Giants baseball at the Park. RIP.
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