DEGRAAF, John (Jerry) Howland

The Verde Independent, Cottonwood, AZ Thursday, June 30, 2011 John “Jerry” Howland DeGraaf, a resident of Cottonwood, died June 27, 2011, from complication due to alcoholism after some period of sobriety. John was born in Redlands, Calif., Aug. 20, 1940, to Russell and Margaret DeGraaf. John attended and graduated from Redlands High School. He owned and operated a full service car repair service station in Redlands. He later was a heavy equipment mechanic. John was a member of St. Vincent De Paul and volunteered many hours. He was there for many people who needed help. His best used talent was his unique communication skills with both wild and domestic animals. John was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Margaret; stepmom Murial; brother Russ Jr. and last the love of his life; his dog Lucky who he saved from Parvo. He is survived by his daughter Kathleen DeGraaf Day of Long Beach, CA; two nephews Jeff and Larry DeGraaf of St. Louis, MO; two cousins Nancy and Kimo of California and his longtime friend Jeanice Allen. A memorial will be held at 822 N. 8th Street in Cottonwood outside on Saturday, July 2, 2011 at 8:30 a.m. An online guestbook is available to sign at www.westcottfuneralhome.com Information provided by survivors.