Doris I. DeGrave, age 96, of Escanaba passed away Wednesday morning, October 7, 2020 at Christian Park Village in Escanaba. She was born on July 15, 1924 in Escanaba, the daughter of William and Ann (Nye) Wester. Doris was raised and attended school in Escanaba and was a 1942 graduate of Escanaba High School. The former Doris I. Wester married Wilbert “Red” DeGrave on July 29, 1942 in Escanaba and he preceded her in death on June 4, 2005. Together, the couple shared nearly 63 years of marriage. Throughout the years, Doris was a loving homemaker, caring for her husband and children. Doris greatly enjoyed spending time at their family camp north of Rapid River – known as “Red’s Cedar Lodge.” She loved the little things in life such as playing Bingo, playing Upwords, working on crossword puzzles, and sitting by the campfire. Doris also had a unique talent of being able to say the alphabet backwards. She loved Halloween and enjoyed dressing up for the holiday the last few years.
Doris I. DeGrave is survived by her children, Janet Thompson of Trenary, Gary (Pat) DeGrave of Gladstone, Deborah (Craig) Olson of Hanover, IL, Mike DeGrave of Grand Rapids, MI, Richard DeGrave (Patty Martin-DeGrave) of Rapid River, Blaine (Char) DeGrave of Rapid River, and Danny (Holly) DeGrave; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Doris was preceded in death by son Tex Howard DeGrave; 2 brothers, Melvin Wester and Lloyd Wester; and 3 sisters, Gladys Nygard, Lou Person, and Helen Oberg.
Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, October 12, 2020 at Gardens of Rest Cemetery with Rev. Stephen Gauger officiating. Burial will follow the graveside services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials please be directed to the charity of one’s choice.
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