Larry D. Graber: 1929-2020

Larry Donald Graber, age 90, formerly of Yankton, S.D., died Monday, March 16, 2020 surrounded by his family at Oakview Terrace in Freeman, S.D.

A memorial service was held Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Goglin Funeral Home in Yankton. Interment of ashes was in Freeman Cemetery.

Larry Donald Graber was born Sunday, April 7, 1929 to Harry and Laura (Baer) Graber in Freeman. He graduated from Freeman High School. Larry enlisted in the U.S. Navy Aug. 10, 1948. After two years of service he was honorably discharged on Aug. 9, 1950 at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, Calif. Larry married Patricia Janssen Aug. 18, 1984 at St. John Lutheran Church in Yankton. They enjoyed 35 happy years together.

Larry was a long-haul truck driver prior to opening Riverside Station Bar & Grill in rural Yankton. People would come from miles around to enjoy his delicious prime rib and barbequed ribs. Larry had a great sense of humor which made it easy for him to make many friends. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Larry had a passion for building and flying remote control aerial planes. He also made many bird houses over the years. He spent quite a bit of time on the golf course, sharpening his game. Larry was a lifetime member of the VFW.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Pat, of Yankton; son Terry (Laura) Graber of McAlester, Okla.; daughter Tena (Kevin) Becker of Yankton; stepdaughter Robin (Leonard Sorenson) Galvan of Yankton; stepdaughter Ella (Ron Ewalt) Kocmich of Yankton; stepson George (Missy) Ridgway of Sioux Falls, S.D.; brother Lonnie Graber of Freeman; sister Deanna Curtis of Hurley, S.D.; 10 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and stepdaughter, Roxanne Kincaid/Ridgway