The Life of Robert Carl Graeff

Robert Carl Graeff, 86, of Kutztown, formerly of Fleetwood, passed away on Friday, March 3, 2017 in Kutztown Manor, Inc., where he was a resident for one month. He was the loving husband of Kathryn L. (Morgan) Graeff, whom he married on December 20, 1970.

Born in Strausstown, he was a son of the late Edwin F. and Elsie M. (Hoch) Graeff. Robert was a former member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Hamburg. He honorably and faithfully served his country as a Corporal in the United States Army, during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge from the service, Robert was a member of the St. Louis Cardinals minor league baseball farm team. He was employed as a clicker by the Fleetwood Tannery from 1986 until his retirement in 1992. Prior to that, he was employed as a molder at the McConway & Torley, LLC, Kutztown Foundry Division, for 12 years, and by Fairmount Foundry, Inc., Hamburg, for several years. A NASCAR enthusiast, Robert was fond of both Dale Earnhardt, Sr. and Jr. He also enjoyed fishing and baseball, where in addition to his minor-league days, he was a member of several little league teams.

In addition to his Wife of 47 years, Kathryn, Robert is survived by his Daughters, Regina L. (Graeff) Jacoby Lipkin, Houston, TX, and Linda A. (Graeff), wife of Mark Brackman, Auburn, PA; Step-Daughter, Sandra A. (Harding) Hughes, Fleetwood; Step-Sons, Dennis R. Harding and Barry D., husband of Stephanie (Rodino) Harding, both of Reading, and Scott T., husband of Michele (Ferry) Harding, New Tripoli. He is also survived by 4 Grandchildren and 13 Step-Grandchildren and their families. He was predeceased by his Parents; Step-Daughter, Diane (Harding) Kellenberger in 2014; Sister, Betty J. (Graeff) Ogden in 2007; and a Brother, John S. Graeff in 2014.

Services for Robert and burial in Forrest Hills Memorial Park, Reiffton, will be private at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are by the Ludwick Funeral Home, Kutztown, PA.