Edward Graunke
1949 - 2023
Edward Graunke, 74, passed away November 16, 2023, at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Ed was born in Gardnerville, Nevada, on April 17, 1949, to Emery and Lorna Graunke. He enjoyed many pursuits in his life including carpentry, truck driving, advocating for the American Heart Association, and capturing life’s greatest moments through photography. One of his favorite assignments was as a freelance photographer of the Kansas City Chiefs home games. He was an avid and loyal Chiefs fan.
Ed is survived by his sister, Charlotte; his brother William, and his brother Donald. He is also survived by his four children: Kerri and Patrick Neschleba, Matt Graunke, Adam and Heidi Graunke, and Laura and Kevin Otto. He was a proud Grandpa to 11 grandchildren: Ethan, Sean, Justin, Kaitlyn, Kyle, Eric, Michael, Brooke, Nathaniel, Lydia, and Noah. Ed’s greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and friends. He was a 39 year survivor of heart disease, defying the doctor’s odds, due to his hard work and dedication to his health.
A memorial service will be held in the Kansas City, Kansas, area in December.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, or you enjoy a game of pickleball or watch a beautiful sunset in his memory.
I knew Ed for decades and always appreciated his grit and survival skills. RIP my friend. - Don Davidson
I was so very sorry to hear of Ed's passing. He was a great friend. - Judith Thran
Ed and I watched many Chief's games together. I always provided ample “colorful language” at the appropriate times after bad calls, etc. In 36 years of knowing Ed including working with him I do not remember a single curse word from him. Ed’s passing leaves a big hole in my life and I am sure everyone else’s. - Thomas Odell
Ed was a gentleman, gracious volunteer, and avid photographer during his years in Kansas City & attended Village Presbyterian Church. RIP ! - Dorie Sheppard
The first time I remember seeing Ed was in the early 90s at a Village Presbyterian Tuesday night singles meeting. He spoke of his heart condition and his efforts to overcome the illness. We became friends and remained friends thru the rest of his life. He was a true gentleman and just a great human being. RIP Ed. - Mary Lynn Stone
Sending you lots of love and comfort as you mourn the loss of your Dad. - The Goodman Family
What a good man! Ed has been in our family for over 30 years. He has attended many of the milestones in each of our lives. He is always kind, generous with his time and talents, respectful, and funny. He has been a wonderful friend to my mom; something we are all very grateful for. He is dearly missed. - Shelly Marchegiani
My name is Aiden and I am six years old. Nancy Mudd is my grandma (we call her Nana). My favorite memory of Ed is when he came with Nana and I to the train tracks. I love trains, and I wanted to see the railroad crossing when a train came. Ed came with us and took pictures. And I loved Ed! I will miss him and our adventures. - Aiden Marchegiani