Gary Graalman

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Gary Graalman, was welcomed into Heaven on March 17, 2018. He lived life with passion and purpose, serving his community as teacher, coach, referee, county commissioner, and school board member. Mr. Graalman had an unspoken way of caring for all his students on a personal level. You would find him sketching out science concepts on the chalkboard, telling fascinating facts about the topic with wit and humor, and then on to lab to dissect and explore. His wise council, gentle but firm guidance, and gracious smile will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and dear friend. He treasured time with his family traveling, camping, boating, skiing, hunting, and fishing. Gary always taught an appreciation and love for the great outdoors and science.

Gary was born in Wichita, Kansas, to Virgil and Bertha Graalman on September 24, 1940. He graduated from Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas, with a Bachelor's Degree in Science. His teaching career spanned 36 years. He taught High School Biology, Physiology, and Chemistry in Smith Center, Kansas, and Rawlins, Wyoming.

Gary was united in marriage to Eunice Horn at the First Baptist Church in McPherson, Kansas. This union was blessed with two daughters, Julie Ann and Angie Lynn. Gary was very proud of his family and always wanted the best for them. Gary and his girls would often be found living, laughing, and learning together in the mountains, at the lake, in a Kansas wheat field, or in the comfort of home. Being especially fond of his grandchildren, he always enjoyed their visits and times they shared watching countless games, graduations, and holiday festivities.

He lives on, a silent memory. We listen deep within ourselves for the echoes of what was once taught in his loving voice we will always remember.

He is survived by his wife, Eunice, of 56 years and his daughters and son-in-laws: Julie (Robert) Balzan of Wheatland, Wyoming and Angie (Archie) Roybal of Rawlins, Wyoming; and grandchildren: Britnee, Whitney, Blake, Olivia, and Ryan; many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews as well as a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Paula Sue Westfall.

Gary's family wishes to express their gratitude for the many acts of kindness and prayers. A special thank you is expressed to everyone at Saratoga Care Center for their loving care and kindness shown to Gary and to his entire family.

A memorial service, honoring his life, will be held Saturday, March 31, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church in Rawlins, Wyoming at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rawlins High School Science Department. Mail to: Central Office, 615 Rodeo Street, Rawlins, Wyoming 82301.

Tributes and condolences may be offered at http://www.jacobycares.com.