Richard "Dick" Graef passed away January 25, 2017 at the age of 91.  A native Trojan, he was born February 17, 1925 to Albert and Marie Graef of Troy.  He married his wife, Lillian, February 26, 1955.  He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters: Dorothy Warthman and Martha Lutz; and infant brother: Robert.

Dick graduated from Troy High School in 1943 and joined the Army Air Force serving 34 months during WWII as an aircraft mechanic and crew chief on B29 airplanes.

He graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1950 with a Bachelors degree in Business Administration and returned to Troy working for Hobart Mfg and General Motors before a career in sales, first automobiles and later in real estate.  He was a co-owner of the Pontiac Agency in Troy and a founding partner of Garden Gate Realty.  His interest in local government led him into politics and in 1980 he was elected Miami County Commissioner (1980-1988).

His hobbies were sports, travel, flying and spending time with his wife, Lillian, at their lakeside home in Michigan.  Together they traveled to 48 countries around the world.  A licensed pilot, he was active in the Waco Historical Society and was honored to be a Trustee Emeritus of this society.

Dick was a third generation lifelong member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Troy.

There will be no visitation.  Burial will be in Troy Riverside Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements are being handled by Baird Funeral Home in Troy.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's United Church of Christ, 130 S. Walnut Street, Troy, OH 45373 or Charity of Donor's Choice.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bairdfuneralhome.com.