Walter Joseph Graham

February 1, 1935 - November 29, 2020

Walter Joseph Graham of Elkton, (formerly, Baltimore), passed away peacefully on November 29, 2020 after a three-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. He was 85.

Mr. Graham was a lifelong Marylander, having moved here from Philadelphia when he was six. He was a 1953 graduate of the Salesianum School in Wilmington and then served with the National Guard in the Tank Corps. Mr. Graham worked as an electrician all his life and was a member of Local 24 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers retiring in 2002.

A competitive roller skater and coach since a young age, Mr. Graham was well known in Maryland roller skating circles throughout the greater Edgewood, Bel Air, and Odenton areas. “He was a pivotal role model and mentor to many young, aspiring skaters over the years.” Said his life partner of 20 + years, Walt Osborne.

Mr. Graham was blessed with a beautiful tenor voice and had sung with the Irish Jasper Greens, Bykota on Stage, Senior Star Showcase, and Paint and Powder. He was also often called upon as a soloist for birthdays, weddings, and church services. In addition, Mr. Graham was a member of Chapel Street Players in Newark, DE, and was one of its principal costumers. “Singing and sewing were his passions, and he was remarkable at both,” said Mr. Osborne.

Mr. Graham was predeceased by his parents, Daniel and Gertrude Graham, and his older brother, Dan. In addition to Mr. Osborne, survivors left to mourn his passing include Mr. Osborne’s daughter, Liz, Mr. Graham’s nieces Debbie (John), Connie (Paul), Mary (Tim), and his nephew Dan (Diane). Additional survivors include four great nephews, a great niece, two great-great nephews, and a great-great niece, as well as several cousins in the greater Philadelphia area.

Services are private. A memorial service is being planned for sometime next year when COVID restrictions permit. Donations may be made payable to “Chapel Street Players” or “Maryland Food Bank” and sent in care of R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.O. Box 248, Rising Sun, MD 21911. To send online condolences please visit, www.rtfoard.com.

RT Foard

Will Richardson

Light a candle

Flowers & Gifts

Walter Joseph Graham of Elkton, (formerly, Baltimore), passed away peacefully on November 29, 2020 after a three-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. He was 85. Mr. Graham was a lifelong Marylander, having moved here from Philadelphia when he was six. He was a 1953 graduate of the Salesianum School in Wilmington and then served with the NationalContinue Reading

See Condolences

In memory of Walter Joseph Graham, Will Richardson lit a candle

Rest in Peace Sweet Walt. I cant think about Kiana without thinking of You and that means I think about You and Dee daily.

Walt Graham, a class act all the way. When I was eight years old I put on my first pair of skates. Walt Graham was instrumental in my skating career. His professionalism, talent, and beautiful smile captured my attention. Walt was always a kind, and inspiring. I loved going to his Roller Rink, Starlight, as Walt was always so welcoming to all skaters. Thank you Walt for teaching me that kindness is the only way to live. I dedicate Goodnight my love for the last skate of your life. I will always think of you, and your fantastic personality, that you shared with me.

Walt, Thanks for the memories, the lessons and the love. You will be missed, but you'll remain forever in my heart. Much Love, Corinne

I remember working with Walt in Delaware for an electrical contractor. He was a very soft spoken man and never would say anything bad about anyone. He gave me permission to hunt his property off Muddy Lane as well. He will truly be missed. Chester Kelly.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I remember working on the roller skating shows in Edgewood. He was a joy and wonderful "boss" Rest in peace dear one

I am glad I got to know this kind and gentle man.

Walt's love of theatre & performing enriched us all. The costumes he made added so much to the performance. I remember the Christmas Show when he had Santa Claus in emerald green as well as ice blue with a staff topped with crystals. I remember the horses he made for the knights to gallop on as well as the Dragon for Dragon Tales. I can't remember how many costumes he made for our Irish shows & he never seemed to tire of adjusting/tweaking until he was completely satisfied. I remember our dinners together after a performance, calmly ignoring everyone's teasing about his refusal to eat anything green, saving space for "the good stuff." He was also ready to raise his voice "slightly" if he thought the cast needed to redirect their focus back to the work at hand. What a multitalented man. We will feel his loss keenly.

Our sincerest condolences to Walt Osbourne, and to all of Walt's family. We loved him so much & will miss him dearly.

My sincere condolences family and friends.

Walt you have left many memorable imprints in the minds of many of us.
As I worked for Starlight Arena for 5 years including times of transition you always remained a person we could go to. You were always kind and informative.
I only wish I could have had one last opportunity to have said, "thank you for so many great memories" I so enjoyed being involved in Showpiece 1 and 2.
May you rest in peace my friend.

Very blessed you were my significant love from '73 thru '86. I'm a better man today because I knew you. So many are sending you love because you were in their lives, especially the young skaters and families, who are parents, grandparents now. They remember a better childhood you helped give them. You are all united again Dad, Mom and Dan. You are a soul of light. Rest In Peace. Michael

Uncle Walt always inspired me to explore life. His best words of wisdom to me were to always walk with my head up like I was always going somewhere, even if I wasn't. Those words have helped me professionally and personally throughout my life. We will miss you Uncle Walt. Love Connie

Dearest Walt O, My thoughts and prayers are with you .. my heart hurts thinking about your pain - which I know so well. Walt will never leave you .. he lives forever in everything you do ... our grief doesn't always let us feel that now but you will come to feel comfort in his everlasting presence. I know how hard it is to say goodbye .. for Walt to say goodbye .. but it is even harder on those of us left behind to try and make sense of any of this. I send love and prayers ...

My heart is breaking for you, Walt.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.