Merrill "Phillip" Graham, age 90, of Elwood, died Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at Edgewater Woods Rehabilitation Center in Anderson following a brief illness. He was born August 10, 1922 in Windfall, the son of Leslie A. and Florence G. (Nash) Graham. He retired from Continental Can Coroporation in 1977 after 36 years working in the maintenance department. He was a 1940 graduate of Windfall High School. Phil married Florence M. Hocker on August 16, 1942. He served his country in the United State Army during World War II stationed in the Philippines. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart Award during his military service. He and his wife, Florence, enjoyed spending their winter months in Lakeland, Florida for over 28 years where Phil was active in the Florida Fly Wheelers. He was also an avid carnival glass collector; a great handyman who could fix anything; and a "hit and miss engine" enthusiast and collector. He will be greatly missed by the family and friends.

Phillip's family includes his wife of more than 70 years, Florence M. Graham of Elwood; 2 children, Donald (wife Theresa) Graham of Anderson and Leslie (wife Lee Ann) Graham of Elwood; sister, Beverly "Ann" Hale of Kokomo; 9 grandchildren, Heather Jones, Amy Graham, Wade Graham, Laura (husband Jon) Ash, Sandy (husband George) Lake, T.J. (wife Jodi) Graham, Richard Graham, Scott (wife Debbie) Spicer, and Britney (husband Jason) Miller; 14 great-grandchildren, Andy, Ben, Devon, Kevin, Madison, Mckenna, Sydney, Taylor, Gavin, Macey, Hunter, Hudson, Chance, and Parker; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Betty Lacey, Gene Henkey, and Clora Browning; and a son, Richard Graham.

A private family service was held at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Ron Becker officiating, and burial will take place in a private ceremony at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences to the Graham family may be made at: www.copherfeslermay.com.