Jeanette Graf

Jeanette (Merrell) Graf, 95, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2023 surrounded by her family at Morrow Community Nursing Home in Sparta.  Jeanette longed to reunite with her dear, loving husband Al who passed away in November 2020 after 67 years of marriage.  

Jeanette was born in La Crosse, WI and attended Holy Trinity Grade School.  She graduated from Aquinas High School in 1946,  and received her nursing degree from St. Francis School of Nursing in 1949. She began her profession at St. Francis Hospital in Pediatrics, assisting Dr. Greg Eagan and Dr. Mary Scheurich in the Pediatric Department for 38 years.  Jeanette’s nursing career gave her a sense of reward and accomplishment, after retirement she continued to be a nurse to family, neighbors, friends and community. 

She married Alfred L. Graf at Holy Trinity Parish on May 9, 1953. They were blessed with three children, Jim, Greg, and Jane, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Jeanette was a long-time member of the CCW St. Joan of Arc Circle at St Patrick’s Parish in Brownsville, MN, She was involved in the Arts and Environment Committees, and enjoyed arranging the altar and all linens for each season.  She also volunteered for many activities, and was a friend and compassionate caregiver to many elderly.  

Jeanette was a dedicated home maker, and also had interests in country cooking, baking Bohemian breads, nut and fruit breads, apple pie squares, and yearly Christmas cookies (Jeanette’s “Cookie Bonanza”).  Each year she provided tasty treats to family, friends and neighbors.  Jeanette and her best friend LaVonne Kearns were well known for their beautiful cakes for every occasion.