William Gracey
September 30, 2009
William E. Gracey, 86, beloved husband of Doris, passed away at his home on Wednesday, September 30, 2009.
He was born September 10, 1923. He was especially devoted to his wife of almost 66 years; his children, Cynde, Tim (Marcia), Chris (Judy), Kevin (Sandra), Mary (John); his 11 grandchildren; his 16 great grandchildren; his nieces, nephews, and extended family in Illinois. He served in the U.S. Air Force in WWII, in the Tinian Island, South Pacific working on B-29 bombers. He was an automotive machinist for Dave Mattson Company until retirement, and many south side baby boomers will remember Frank's Pizza which he and Doris operated just north of Lincoln High School in the 60's and 70's. He was a 50-year member of the Southgate Masonic Lodge, and a member of the IAM union, and Jordan United Methodist Church. He was as principled and honorable a man as there ever was, and set an example to his children and grandchildren that will be a challenge to live up to.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Dora Gracey; an infant son Terrance, twin grandchildren, and a sister Delphia Freeman. Memorials may be made in William's name to the Jordan United Methodist Church.
The funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 3, 2009, at Hamilton's Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street, with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to service time.
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Vincent DeAngelis
10/03/2009
You probably don't remember me (Doris, you gave me cigarettes during a snow storm).
I am so sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories of Friday and Saturday night pizzas (one, well done, please!) It was a weekly ritual. During Lent we would order so we could eat them after 12 midnight. We still talk about how good they were. If fact, tonight my wife and Michael and Dorothy Mauro were driving down SW 9th and Michael said remember where Franks Pizza used to be...right there! With that my wife Toni informed me of Bill's passing.
May I speak for the names below.
He and you and your family will always have a fond place in our hearts.
Vince, Michael, Jr., Ralph, Nick, Vic, Mare, Frank, Pete, Liz and PJ
Those who are with Bill enjoying pizza:
George, Lucille, Worm, Rose, and Sparrow.