Norman L. Graham, 90, of Seabrook, N.H., and formerly of Haverhill, died Thursday, April 27, at Maplewood Center, Amesbury, surrounded by his family.
He was born in Haverhill, March 4, 1927, son of the late Walter and Ida (Schroix) Graham. Educated in the Haverhill school system, Graham graduated from Haverhill High School, class of 1944. From 1944 to 1946 he served in the United States Navy as a gunners mate 3C during World War II and received a World War II Victory Medal, American Theatre Medal and Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Medal with one star. In January of 1948, he enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean War where he earned an Army of Occupational Medal and was honorably discharged in September, 1949.
After serving his country, Graham resided in California for more than 25 years where he earned his degree as a refrigeration engineer from L.A. Tech. While there he was employed as a cold storage engineer and also owned and operated Norm’s Barbershop for many years. Upon returning to Massachusetts he was employed at Raytheon as an electronics assembler, from where he retired. In 1942, at the age of 15, he earned his captain’s license and was the youngest in New England to do so. A multi talented person, Graham enjoyed building boats.
His survivors include his wife of 70½ years, Evelyn E. (Meister) Graham of Seabrook, N.H.; three sons, Gary L. Graham and his wife Suzanne of Haverhill, Scott M. Graham of Newbury, Vt., Rick S. Graham and his wife Debra of Newbury, Vt.; a brother, Richard Graham of Haverhill; six grandchildren, Shawna Clifford, Keri Murphy, Bret Graham, Stacy Graham, Kelly Foley and Jesse Graham; six great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Graham was predeceased by six siblings and his daughter-in-law, Linda (Lessard) Graham.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his calling hours on Wednesday, May 3, from 4 to 7 p.m., at H.L. Farmer and Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill. His funeral service is Thursday morning, May 4, 11 a.m., at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will be in Linwood Cemetery, Haverhill. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 300 5th Ave., Waltham, MA 02451.