Vernon Graber Obituary

Vernon James Graber

Vernon James "Jim" Graber, 81, of Bradner, passed away peacefully at his home Tuesday, February 25, 2025. The first-born son of Vernon & Virginia (Wagner) Graber. James was born and raised in Bradner. Upon graduation from Lakota High School, James served as a Petty Officer 2nd Class, Machinist Mate with the United States Navy from 1961-1965. Following his naval career, James continued to serve his community in countless ways. Jim was a member of Bradner Fire Department from 1967 to present, serving as a fire chief as well as an EMT instructor during his time with them. Jim also served as a patrolman with the Bradner Police Department and sat on Village of Bradner Board of Public Affairs. In addition to his roles of service, Jim also retired from Autolite/Honeywell in Fostoria after a 30-year career and worked an additional 20 years after retirement with Barndt Funeral Home.

Beyond his years of service, the greatest joy of his life was his family. Jim married his wife, Helen (Jackson) Graber December 26, 1962, in Bradner. Married for 62 years, they are parents to three sons, Doug (Jennifer) Graber, Ron (Josie) Graber, and Guy (Darcy) Graber. Jim was an adoring grandfather to six grandchildren, Zachary (Alyssia) Graber, Ashley (Josiah) Boulee, Samantha (Adam Brown) Graber, Amber Graber, Adrian Graber & Elizabeth (Jordan) Harrison. He was a loving great-grandfather to Jett, Bradlee, Marley, Siah, Jagger, Elise, Bennett, Lydia, Camille and Jesse. He was a loving brother to Linda Repasz and Tim (Marlene) Graber.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

An avid fisherman, Jim enjoyed abundant fishing trips with his wife and family. They traveled to several states and Canada, casting lines and sharing time together on the water. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered.

Friends will be received from 3-6:30 p.m. Friday, February 28, 2025, at Barndt Funeral Home in Wayne. Bradner Fire Department will have a Last Alarm Service starting at 6:30 p.m. Friday followed by the Albert Bowe American Legion Post performing military rites. A Celebration of Life Service will be at 7 p.m. Friday, February 28, 2025, with Pastor Ron Adams officiating. Burial at Bradner Cemetery will be at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Bradner Fire Department or National American Legion.

Online condolences may be made to Jim's family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.