Oliver Graves

Oliver J. Graves, 85, Jamestown, North Dakota, died Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at Jamestown Hospital.

Mr. Graves was born January 10, 1925 in Woodworth, ND, the son of Clarence and Selma (Thompson) Graves. He grew up and received his education in rural Woodworth.

He entered the United States Army on May 4, 1945 at Fort Snelling, MN, serving in the Asiatic Pacific Theater. He was discharged on December 26, 1946 at Fort Lewis, WA from the 24th Division as a First Sergeant in Field and Coast Artillery. On September 22, 1949 Oliver married Donna Mae Peters in Jamestown. Oliver and Donna moved to Ypsilanti, ND in 1950 from Jamestown, where they started farming. Oliver retired in 1988 and moved to Jamestown.

Oliver was very active in community affairs, he served as President of Ypsilanti Elevator Co. for 15 years, 12 years on the Ypsilanti and Montpelier School Board; and 11 years on the Ypsilanti Township Board. He served for 6 years as State Director Midland Industries, 3 years Stutsman County FMHA Director, 3 years Stutsman County ASCS Community Committee; and 8 years as a Stutsman County Commissioner.

Oliver was a active member of Ypsilanti Lutheran Church, where he served for 11 years on the church council.

Oliver enjoyed farming, traveling, hunting, and new cars.

Oliver is survived by his wife, Donna Mae Graves, Jamestown; four children, Patricia Nicholls, of Coon Rapids, MN; Rex (Debra) Graves, Jamestown; Jay (Judy) Graves, of Ypsilanti, ND; Tim Graves, Melrose, MN; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Sharon Knepper, Agoura, CA; and special friends, Jerry and Jean Reule, Thompson, ND.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; one sister; and one great-grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Jamestown Hospital.

On line guestbook: www.eddyfuneralhome.com