James E. “Jim“ Graham, 82, of Russell died on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at his home in Russell, Kansas.  Jim was born on September 18, 1925 in Russell, Kansas the son of Ralph E. and Clara L. (Woelk) Graham.

Jim attended Russell public schools and graduated from Russell High School.  Later he joined the U.S. Air Force and after the military he went to college.  He graduated from Washburn University with a Bachelors Degree as a Physicist.  Jim met and fell in love with his best friend, Alice Ann Dawson, and they were united in marriage on August 23, 1951 in Russell.  From this union they were blessed with three daughters Nancy, Theresa and Susan.  He worked for the U.S. Department of the Interior for the Bureau of Land Management as an Oil Industry Inspector Supervisor.  His job kept him moving around all over the U.S. for about 30 years until he retired and moved back to Russell in 1995.  Jim enjoyed reading, bowling, golfing, wildlife and watching boxing on TV.  He also enjoyed being a member of the Elks Lodge in Russell; he loved music and dancing with his wife Alice.  He loved music so much that he and his family often played “Name That Tune” while listening to music in the car or at home. 

Surviving family include his wife Alice of the home, daughters Nancy Walker of Russell, Theresa Pike and husband Jim of Powell, Wyoming and Susan Burrow and husband John of Salado, Texas; 7 grandchildren Dustin, Kelci, Erin, Mike, Jaime, Graham and Garrett.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held from 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. on Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell.  There will be no graveside service and cremation has preceded the service.  Guestbook registration will be from 9 AM to 8 PM Tuesday with the family present for the gathering from 4 PM to 7 PM at the mortuary.  A memorial has been established with Russell Public Library.  Contributions and condolences may be left with Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary who are in charge of these arrangements.  Condolences may be emailed by going to www.pvpmortuary.com.