Fred William “Bill” Graue, Jr., 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 15th from a rapidly progressing form of Alzheimer’s. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Barb. Loving father to Jennifer (Andrew) Wilson and Mark (Leslie) Graue. Proud grandfather to Everen Wilson. Dear brother to Beth Parker and Jack Graue and fond uncle of many nieces and nephews.
Bill was a past employee of DeSoto Chemical Coatings, Continental Can, White Cap and Silgan Containers. He had a long career working in can coatings, and food and beverage bottle cap divisions. He was a member of the International Metal Decorators Association for over 30 years and served on its board of directors. Veteran of the US Army during the Vietnam era serving at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD, in the Ballistic Research Lab. Proud alumnus of Monmouth College where he received a Bachelor degree in chemistry and the University of Chicago where he earned an MBA.
Bill had everlasting friendships with his fraternity brothers and their wives, and greatly enjoyed the lunch groups he was in with his previous co-workers and friends from the IMDA.
He was a lover of jazz, blues, folk, and country music; and a sports car enthusiast. He was a member of the Windy City Z Car Club and cherished his 240Z Datsun which he bought new in 1971 and for which he won many awards. Bill appreciated a good (and bad) pun and had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed fine whiskey and had a nightly Manhattan with a Luxardo cherry. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to WDCB 90.9fm, his favorite jazz radio station (WDCB.org) , Direct Relief specifying Ukraine relief (directrelief.org) , or Angels Grace Hospice which was a great help to us at the end (angelsgracehospice.com) .
Condolence messages can be left at simplicitycremationcare.com . Memorial Visitation to be held at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home, 4920 Main St, Downers Grove on Saturday, October 28, 2023 from 10am-2 pm. For info: (westsuburbanfh.com or 630-852-8000).
