William John Graf Sr.

William John Graf Sr., 81, of Homerville, Ohio, formerly of Elyria, Ohio, born December 14, 1943, died October 26, 2025 entering into heavenly service after a prolonged illness.

William is preceded in death by his wife, Johnda Cay Graf, parents Robert and Dorothy Graf, brother-in-law Dan Aneshansley and cousin Steven Santa.

He is survived by his wife Penelope Graf (Steele), daughter Laura Graf, son William John Graf Jr. (Ashley), step-daughters Christina and Melissa Kosht, granddaughters Cayla and Katelyn Graf, great grandchildren Violet and Malakai. Siblings Judith Ockuly (Larry), Janet Aneshansley, Robert (Corinne), Kathy Grady (Jim), Ed, John (Carolyn), Dorothy Brown (Jeff), Virginia Ackerman (Larry).

William graduated from North Olmsted High School Class of 1961.

He held numerous jobs from pumping gas, harvesting gladiolus, before enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served 4 years as Military Police being stationed in Texas, the Philippines and Vietnam. He was honorably discharged.

William served on the Elyria Police Department for 25 years upholding the oath to serve and protect while serving as a “beat cop”, detective and armorer. Upon his retirement in 1997, he worked an additional 10 years for the Elyria Court System.

William was a deacon at the Polk Church of Christ, an active member of the National Fraternal Order of Police, Life time member of the Vietnam Security Police Association, Police and Fire Retirees of Ohio, and North Olmsted Gun Club.

Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 AM, November 4, 2025 at The Polk Church of Christ, 207 Congress Street Polk, Ohio. Visitation will precede the service starting at 10:30 AM

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Polk Church of Christ, North Olmsted Gun Club, Disabled American Veterans or Wounded Warriors.

Matteson Funeral Home is honored to serve William’s family and community. If you would like to share a photo or memory of William with the family, please do so at mattesonfh.com.