Joseph H. Graves, 81, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Thursday, January 25, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, IA.

Per Joe’s wishes there will be no public visitation or formal funeral service. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

He was born on August 18, 1936 in Guilford, Missouri, the son of Doyle R. and Catherine (Seifert) Graves. Joe was united in marriage to Loretta J. Cavanaugh on February 11, 1956 at St. John the Baptist Church at Peosta, IA.

He was a self-employed logger and truck driver. Joe was an avid card player, enjoyed camping, traveling and was a born instigator. He would always ask about the weather and the current gas prices.

Surviving is his wife, Loretta; five children, Linda Graves of Dubuque, IA, Debbie (Tom) Splinter of East Dubuque, Kathy (Kevin) Kammerude of Hazel Green, WI, Jake (Patty) Graves of Mt. Ayr, IA, and Shirley (Don) Kearney of Murray, IA; 17-grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; five siblings, Mary Westemeier of Dickeyville, WI, Betty Schneider of East Dubuque, Jerry (Carol) Graves of Monroe, WI, Jeanne Dura of Dickeyville, and Harold (Carla) Staudenrous of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Jerry Graves, a brother, Jake Graves and sister-in-law, Irene Graves.

Loretta and family wish to thank Mercy Medical Center and Dr. Joseph Fuller for the wonderful care given to their husband, father and grandfather.

Online condolences may be left for the family @ www.millerfhed.com.