Mary Ida Graber, 87, of Goessel, Kan., died Jan. 28, 2021, at Bethesda Home. She was born June 20, 1933, to John A. and Matilda (Hofer) Nachtigall in rural Freeman, S.D.
She graduated from Freeman Academy in South Dakota. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in home economics and later graduated from Emporia State University with a master’s degree in school counseling.
She was a pastor’s wife and held many positions in the church. She was a beloved home economics teacher in Emery, S.D., Versailles, Mo., and Goessel, where she also served as a school counselor.
She married Ralph Graber on Aug. 29, 1953, in Freeman, S.D. He preceded her in death in 2002.
Survivors include six children, Douglas (Nancy) Graber of Goshen, Ind., Donovan Graber of Galva, Warren (Lisbeth) Graber of Sioux Falls, S.D., Joan Kaufman of Harrisburg, S.D., Anita Bailey of Panama City Beach, Fla., and Corbin (Tonya) Graber of Divide, Colo.; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; two brothers, Alfred and Andrew Nachtigall; a sister, Alice Ulrickson; and a grandson, Matthew Graber.
A private graveside service will be held for the family. A virtual celebration of life was held by Zoom. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethesda Home and Rocky Mountain Camp.
