Conrad GrahamNov. 8, 1932 - Dec. 19, 2016SalinasConrad Graham, 84, of Salinas, passed away peacefully on Monday, December, 19, 2016, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 8, 1932 in Wood River, Nebraska to the late Albert and Celina Graham. He moved to Lodi, California with his parents when he was 3-years old.             He completed high school at Lodi High where he was an avid swimmer and on the undefeated swim team for 4-years.  Conrad also participated in the high school band where he enjoyed playing the trumpet. He also enjoyed his summer job as Lifeguard at Lodi Lake. He was drafted and served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. He served as an Artillery Survey Specialist. During his term he received the "Korean Service Medal", "United Nations Medal", "Good Conduct Medal", and the "National Defense Service Medal".            He was in Retail Management for many years before he became a Business owner of the 7eleven/San Miguel Mini Mart in Salinas for 35-years where he enjoyed solving the problems of the world with his loyal customers. He loved his family more than words can say. Family time together was the most important thing in Conrad's life. It always put a smile on his face when the family gathered together. We always looked forward to hearing his many stories of his life adventures over the years and will be greatly missed.            He enjoyed music which included, playing the piano, listening to jazz music and loved attending the Jazz Festivals on the Monterey Bay. He was extremely talented and creative. His many creations are cherished by the entire family and friends. Among those projects were beautiful pieces, hand made model airplanes and his craftsmanship throughout his home. He also loved gardening and took pride in his Gazania's which followed behind the pride and joy of his grandchildren.            Conrad was preceded in death by his daughter Cheryl Smith, Dorothy Graham, grandsons, John and Nickolas Saunders and his parents, Albert and Celina Graham.            He is survived by his wife of 43-years, Sonja Graham of Salinas, his children Alyce (Bruce) Engle of Pleasanton, Alexis (Darren) Saunders of Fresno; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, one Brother Craig (Jeanie) Graham of Friday Harbor, WA, one sister-in-law Elaine (Steve) LoForti of Fresno, one brother-in-law Harry (Irene) Harami of Salinas; one niece and two nephews.             Friends and family are invited to services 12:00p.m. on Thursday, December 22, 2016, at the Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 18200 Damian Way, Prunedale, CA. 93907.                                                                                                                 In lieu of flowers, donations in memory Conrad Graham may be made to the Veteran's Association or .Funeral arrangements by Struve and Laporte.Online condolences to www.struveandlaporte.com