Obituary of Tasman Lees Graham

Tasman Lees Graham, Colonel, U. S. Army (Ret.) Sept. 8, 1931 – July 9, 2010 Tas was born in Newdale, Idaho, and raised in Tasmania, Australia. In 1952, he returned to the United States to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He enlisted, completed basic training and Officer Candidate School and rose to the rank of Colonel. After a 27-year distinguished career, which included two tours in Vietnam, three tours in Germany and command of the 54th Engineer Battalion (Combat), Tas retired in 1979. His professionalism, dedication to duty, and personal integrity were recognized by and earned the respect and admiration of those who served with him. His military awards include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal among others. His retirement to Upper Tract, WV led to a 20-year service with the Upper Tract Volunteer Fire Department as President, Secretary and Firefighter. He also served with the Upper Tract Rescue Squad as an EMT for a decade. Tas always felt that Pendleton County was his true home, even after his illness required him to move to Washington state. Tas was an avid hunter and shooter. In his youth he served an apprenticeship as a Cabinet Maker and Joiner and enjoyed woodworking throughout his life. He also had a passion for working on and riding motorcycles. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronal D. Graham, mother Georgina Chick, and stepmother, Eleanor Bennion. Tas is survived by six brothers and one sister: Ian Hyde Graham, Rex Graham (Loma), Gary Graham (Maryn), Gordon Graham (Larri-Jean), John Chick (Diana), Neil Chick (Anne), and sister Maeve Watson (Paul). His loving and close family meant the world to Tas. His wife of 52 years, Helga in Bonney Lake, WA; two sons, Carl (Marion), Andrew (Carrie); two daughters, Annette (John), and Kathy (Stan); and nine grandchildren are thankful for his life and mourn his passing. A private family graveside service with full military honors will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA on July 30, 2010.