Carl Gradick

Carl Gradick graduated from Tyler High School in 1948, joined the United States Navy in 1950 and served in the Blacksmith Shop aboard the U.S. Jason; a repair ship during the Korean War. Most of his service was spent in Japan, receiving an honorable discharge in September of 1954. Carl married Marie January 31, 1954 and they just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. He retired from the plumbers union in 1991. While in High School he rode rodeo and continued to ride after he graduated, mostly bucking broncs. Playing guitar was his passion; he played in a band while in the Navy with his Navy buddies. He also played in small bands with his in-laws and friends throughout his lifetime, playing just about every day for the joy of it. He and Marie also enjoyed square dancing for many years. Carl also loved building guitars, flower planters, gazebos and homemade canes. He loved spending time with his family and will truly be missed by so many who knew him and will continually love him. He is survived by his daughter, Carla; his grandchildren, Jacobe and Cassie; also by his great-grandchildren, Andrew and Ryan. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie and also by his parents, Ercell B. and Lena Mae Leggett Gradick.

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