George R. Grater

George R. Grater, 82, went peacefully to be with the Lord at his home on Saturday, December 8, 2012 after an extended illness. He was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania on April 13, 1930. After graduating from high school, he entered the U.S. Navy and served for 4 years on the USS Cotten during the Korean conflict. While on leave visiting his uncle in Kingsport, he met his future wife, Janet Hauk. Following his discharge, he began working for Kingsport Press as a proofreader and worked there until his retirement in April 1995.

He was a loving and gentle husband, father, and grandfather. He was a Christian servant, faithfully serving Mafair United Methodist Church as Sunday school teacher and superintendent. He loved singing in the choir and playing in the handbell choir. During his retirement, he enjoyed tutoring children in reading at Jefferson and Lincoln Elementary schools, as well as spending time with his family.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Allan and Isabel Grater, and his brother-in-law, Jimmie Hauk. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Janet Hauk Grater; daughters and their spouses, Cathy and Phil Brandt, and Judy and Joel Hooker; grandchildren, Rob Brandt and his wife, Sarah, and Abigail Hooker. Also surviving are his sisters, Sarah Ralph Lambert, and Betsy Bill Grater; sister-in-law, Patsy Hauk, and beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at Mafair United Methodist Church on Tuesday, December 11th, from 5 to 7:00 pm. A celebration of life service will follow at 7:00 pm in the church sanctuary with Rev. Kim Goddard officiating.

The family would like to thank Dr. McElroy and Nurse Joyce, and Amedisys Hospice for their loving care and support. In lieu of flowers, we request that memorial contributions be made to the Music Ministry at Mafair United Methodist Church, 1409 E. Center St., Kingsport, TN 37664.