Calvin Eugene Graves, 87, of Stuarts Draft, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Calvin’s life was defined by his steadfast love for family, his quiet generosity, and his sly sense of humor. You could call him at anytime time, day or night, for help or a ride home. And believe me, the kids always tested that.
Born on January 4, 1939, in Willing, New York, to Eugene Leonard and Carrie Graves Roeske, Calvin grew up with the values of hard work and community that would guide him throughout his life. In high school, he played trumpet for the Wellsville Marching Lions and later, the Blue Devils Drum Corps.
He loved hunting, fishing and throwing the kids into the Genesee River in Shongo.
He proudly served his country in Vietnam as a truck mechanic, a role that shaped his discipline and sense of service. Following his military years, he worked for Siemens for over 35 years until retiring. Calvin became a founding volunteer fireman for the Petrolia Hose Company and later served as Captain for the McEwen Hose Company.
He loved working with wood from building backyard workshops to pool decks, anything that required a tool, he did it. He was also an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and loved old Western movies and history.
He adored being a grandfather more than anything and the idea of sharing his wisdom and humor with the next generation was not lost on us.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Hulse Graves; children Christopher (Barbara) Graves, Douglas (Kathleen) Graves, Joanna (Adamm) Racine, and Andrea (Ronald) Kiser; his sister, Jane Hessney and 7 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Sherman, Richard, Roscoe, and Norma.
Who can say what constitutes a good life?
We can. He did. We love you.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Hart Comfort House – 141 East State Street Wellsville NY 14895 and the Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad at sdrs.org
Is your family facing the loss of a loved one? Are getting your affairs in order ? Baker-Swan Funeral Homes in Wellsville and Andover stand ready to help, Baker-Swan.com
