Robert G. Graf, age 71 of Utica and Port Orange, FL passed away September 4, 2006 at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center after a long illness. Through this time, he was strong for his family and always kept his wonderful sense of humor. In Utica Robert married his loving wife Catherine (Kay) Canter, a blessed union of over 49 years. He retired in 1996 from the F.X. Matt Brewing Co. after 42 years. Robert was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Iowa. He was a parishioner of St. Peter's Church, North Utica and a past trustee of the Utica Maennerchor. Robert loved fishing the West Canada Creek, was a "great gardener" and loved to take 4-mile walks around home and on Daytona Beach. He and Kay also loved taking cruises. Robert was affectionately known as "The Claw" when he played with his grandchildren. Robert is survived by his wife Kay, 4 children and 11 grandchildren who were the loves of his life. Daughter Marianne and husband Brian Gildea and their children Katie, Brenna, and Brian J. Gildea. Daughter Theresa and husband James Wilson and their children, Theresa Rose, Michele, and Kimberly Wilson. Son Robert Graf and children, Maggie and Emily Graf. Son Brian and Leah Graf and their children, Ava, Sara and Adam. He also leaves two sisters and a brother-in-law, Elizabeth Graf and Mary and Joseph Schmitt. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Clarence Canter, William Canter and wife Holly, William Peters, Diane Canter and Betty Canter and numerous nieces, nephews and good friends especially Jan and Karen Barendse, Nan and John Kiser, and Nancy and Bill Van Winkle. Robert was predeceased by his parents, Norbert and Rosella Graf and his infant daughter, Maureen. Mr. Graf's funeral will be held on Thursday September 7, 2006 at 10:15 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., North Utica and at 11:00 from St. Peter's Church, North Utica. Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home are Wednesday from 4-8. Those so wishing may make donations to the American Lung Association in Robert's memory. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Joseph Booth and staff, Utica EMT's Sickler and Orlando and the emergency room staff, Dr. Rubin, Kevin and Steve and also to Kim on CTICU.