Obituary of David R. Graiff

David R. "Rick" Graiff, 73, passed away peacefully in the presence of family on Friday, June 25, 2021 at Inspira Medical Center in Vineland, NJ. He and his wife Carol (Smith) were married 52 years. Rick was predeceased by his parents, David L. Graiff and Margaret Abba; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Shirley Smith and his brother-in-law, Don Smith, all of Vineland. Born on December 19, 1947, Rick was a lifelong resident of Vineland and played baseball as a young boy. He graduated from Vineland High School in 1966 where he met and dated Carol. He also attended Spring Garden Institute in PA until he enlisted and served for 6 years in the NJ Army National Guard where he was trained in the operation and maintenance of Army vehicles, including the 2 ½ ton truck. He began his automotive career with Vertolli Pontiac before opening his own auto service shop in Vineland, retiring in 2017 after 47 years. He was known for his engine work on vintage muscle cars. Rick truly enjoyed his family time. He coached T-Ball, Farm League, Little League and Senior League for every one of his four sons. He was a member of the Highland Anglers and enjoyed bay fishing trips with them as well as with all his boys on his boat "My Four Sons." Rick spent many years enjoying the pursuit of deer and turkeys locally and in Florida with his brother-in-law. He was an avid NASCAR fan, especially Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr. He and Carol attended many baseball games, school functions and recitals for their children and grandchildren over the years. They loved a good road trip. Rick was also fond of his golden retrievers Rex and Rocky. Survivors include his wife Carol (Smith) Graiff of Vineland; four sons, Michael (Sherry), Ryan (Jennifer), Jeffrey, and Jonathan (Tracy Gaidis); grandchildren, Samantha, Michael Jr. and Rachel; Addison and Leighton; Sofia; and Alexandra "Lexi" and Monroe. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Terry Smith of Vineland and Ruth Ann (Dom) LaCombe of Florida, as well as many nieces and nephews. Family and friends will be received at DeMarco-Luisi Funeral Home, 2755 S. Lincoln Ave, Vineland, on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 from 2-4:00 pm, followed by a memorial service. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to their charity of choice.