Obituary of Alan M. Graber

Alan M. Graber of Old Lyme, beloved husband of Patricia (O'Brien), passed away after a long illness on July 8 with his family by his side. He was born in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Harry and Rose (Besunder) Graber and moved to Connecticut with his family as a small boy. He attended local schools in Hartford and Middletown, graduated from Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Georgia and attended Long Island University. He began a sales career culminating in his business, A.M. Graber Real Estate in Wethersfield. After graduating from Central Connecticut State College and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute he enjoyed a second career, teaching in business schools, community colleges and at the University of Connecticut. In semi-retirement, he worked as well for Kraft General Foods reminiscent of happy days he had spent with his Dad in his grocery store in Middletown. Alan was a 32-degree Mason and was a founding member and past president of Temple Beth Torah in Wethersfield. He was a lifelong fan of the Brooklyn (LA) Dodgers and for many years enjoyed watching the UCONN women's basketball team. He loved his dogs, Punch, Teddy, Shannon and finally Buddy - which brought him great joy. Alan was a good, honest and loving man, strong willed with an incredible work ethic. This work ethic may be one of the greatest gifts he gave to his children and stepchildren. Most important to Alan was his family. He was a devoted husband to Pat for over 41 years and a loving father and stepfather to Ellen Graber Donohue (Kevin Donohue) of Windham Center, Elise Graber (Bob Wood) of Columbia, Nancy Graber Pigeon (Craig Pigeon) of Ellensburg, WA, Mark Graber Finnegan (Mary Little Finnegan) of Old Saybrook, Richard Finnegan (Aimee) of Old Saybrook, and Chrisann Finnegan of Old Lyme. He was also a proud grandfather and step grandfather of 19 and great grandfather of 3. Alan is also survived by his sister Selma Raines, of Redwood City, CA, 1 niece and 3 nephews. A private funeral service was held at Duck River Cemetery, Old Lyme, followed by a celebration of Alan's life. Memorial Gifts may be made to The Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries at shorelinesoupkitchens.org. For messages of condolences please go to www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements by the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.