Ralph Graffius Jr

Ralph R. "Mr. Ralph" Graffius Jr., 76, of Reading, passed away on Monday, November 23, 2009 at 2:40 p.m. at the Reading Hospital and Medical Center, where he had been a patient since November 14th.

Born in Reading, he was a son of the late Ralph R. Graffius Sr. and Fern (Bowers) Graffius. He was the husband of Rosaline E. (Scheetz) Graffius at home.

He was a 1951 graduate of Reading High School, received an Associates Degree from R.A.C.C., and attended Penn State Berks Campus. He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving with the United States Navy.

He was a former engineer for Reading Railroad. He was the founder and co-owner of Tiny Treasures Nursery School, with locations in Kenhorst and Brecknock Twp. for 43 years. He was affectionately known as "Mr. Ralph" by the children, their families, and his employees. He was also the former owner of Lullaby Nursery School.

He is an original member of the Reading Buccaneers since 1957, and co wrote their Corps song. He was also a member of the Antietam School District Board of Advisors for 3 years, a member of Adamstown VFW Post 8795, and of the Shillington American Legion Post 0635.

He had many hobbies, including gardening, and traveling to both Atlantic City and Las Vegas with family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons: Richard of Palm Beach, FL, and Robert of Cumru Twp.; daughters: Kim (Graffius) Moreno and Kelly (Graffius) Zuchowski both of Reading; Rochelle (Graffius) Frebel and Renee (Graffius) Rotkiske of Cumru Twp.

There are also fourteen grandchildren.

He is also survived by brothers: James of Bernville, and William of Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude's Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.