Obituary: Kenneth Grabach

Kenneth A. Grabach, age 73, of Oxford, passed away peacefully at Hospice of Cincinnati in Hamilton after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on Sept. 1, 1952, in Enid, Oklahoma, Ken was the beloved son of Rev. Neal and Ellen (Davis) Grabach. 

He graduated from Bentley High School in Flint, Michigan, in 1970 before continuing his education at University of Michigan-Flint, where he earned his Bachelor of A.B. in 1975 and later his A.M.L.S from University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, in 1980. His love of learning and dedication to scholarship remained with him throughout his life.

Ken devoted 30 years of faithful service to Miami University Libraries, retiring in 2016 as the Maps and Government Documents Librarian. He took great pride in his work and found deep joy in helping students, guiding researchers, and sharing his knowledge. His kindness, patience and gentle humor left a lasting impression on colleagues and students alike. Ken was an avid lifelong birder and naturalist. In retirement, he was both a student and a teacher of courses at Miami's Institute for Learning In Retirement.  

A devoted member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Oxford, Ken lifted his voice in the choir and quietly served his church community with dedication and warmth. He found happiness in studying maps and books, reading widely, listening to opera and classical music, cooking wonderful meals and savoring good food shared with those he loved.

Above all, Ken cherished his family. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 42 years, Patricia (Saul) Grabach, and their cat, Clifford, whose companionship were the great joys of his life; his mother, Ellen D. Grabach of Grand Rapids, Michigan; and his sister, Susan G. (Dave) Rahn and their two daughters, also of Grand Rapids. He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Neal H. Grabach.

Ken will be remembered for his gentle spirit, intellectual curiosity, generous heart, and the quiet ways he made the world better for those around him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

This obituary was originally published by Paul R. Young Funeral Home and has been edited for length.