The Life of ROLLAND LEE GRAHAM
Rolland Lee Graham was born in Perry, Iowa on April 12, 1918 to William and Grace (Kever) Graham and Rolland died on Tuesday, September 24, 2013. Rolland was a lifelong resident of the Des Moines and surrounding areas. He played four years of football and graduated from Johnston High School in 1938. In 1939, Rolland married Wilma Mae Kaltenheuser. They were high school sweethearts and this union produced two sons - Le Roy Rolland and Rollie Jr.
Rolland and Wilma had many homes in the Des Moines and Polk City areas. Their latest home was in Waukee where they enjoyed "country life" until Wilma''s passing. They also enjoyed their eight grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Many happy times and memories were made in their homes through the years, Rolland served in WWII. He retired from Firestone after 20+ years. He also loved farming, remodeling homes, fishing, different craft projects and spending time with his family.
Rolland was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wilma; his parents; six brothers and sisters of whom he was the youngest. Rolland is survived by his two sons, Le Roy (Linda) Graham of Waukee and Rollie Jr. of Alleman. His grandchildren are Vicky Lee (Kevin) Anderson of Waukee, Rollie (Theresa) Graham of Melrose, Doug (Deanna) Graham of Urbandale, Michael (Vikki) Graham of West Des Moines, Kerry (April) Graham of Des Moines, Steven (Tiffany) Graham of Waukee, Chris (Tanya) Graham of Polk City, and Melanie Cawthorn of Ankeny. Rolland was also extremely proud of his 19 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.
The family wishes to acknowledge and thank the entire staff at Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center and Mercy Hospice in Johnston for their loving care. They also wish to thank Dr. Jose Angel and Dr. Lazaro Rabang for all their knowledge, help and support through the years. A special thanks to the many friends who have been so supportive through these past few years, especially Debra Stambaugh who has been there at all times for Rolland, Rollie, Le Roy and Linda these past few months.
Rolland and Wilma were members of Waukee Christian Church and Rolland''s service will be held there on Friday, September 27 at 10:30 a.m. Visitation is on Thursday, September 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. with the family being present. A luncheon will be served immediately after the service with burial following at Highland Memory Gardens. Brooks Funeral Care is in charge of all the arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center or Waukee Christian Church.