Obituary of Edward Joe Gracias

Gracias, Edward Joe Bay City MI Ed, age 78, passed away February 24, 2019 in his home, after a long illness with his wife and oldest son by him. He was born July 3, 1940 to the late Joseph and Mildred Gracias of Spaulding Twp, MI. Ed's home has always been the Tri Cities. He grew up on his family farm before he joined the Army. He was very proud of having served in the United States Army and of being a veteran. He would always smile when others would thank him for his service. He was known to wear his Veteran hat when he would leave the house. After his service, he joined General Motors Corporation, and was a dedicated employee for 30 years until his retirement. He was always a proud member of UAW local #699. In 1968, Ed married Charlotte Heckman. He was a beloved husband for 50 years. They went on to raise a family. They had three children. He is survived by all. Sheila (Richard) Grinley of New Hampshire. Ken of Bay City, MI, and Mark (Tiffany) of Midland, MI. In recent years, Ed was known for always having a scratch off lottery ticket for his kids to take a chance at winning. He enjoyed gardening, visiting the flea market with his son, and taking his young grandsons on tractor rides. He was never afraid to spark up a conversation with a stranger. He was proud of his children and grandchildren, and has left behind five grandchildren, Jacquie (30) (fiancée Luke McGilliuddy) and Seth Grinley (27) all of New Hampshire, Zachary (7), Gavin (4) and Ryder (2) all of Midland, MI. Ed is also survived by a brother-in-law Andy Heckman; a brother, Tom Gracias; sisters, Joann Stephens and Sharron Bailey. Ed was preceded in death by a little sister, Judy whom he loved; a younger brother, Bob; his father, Joseph in 1986 and mother, Mildred in 2011. Visitation will take place Saturday March 2, 2019 from 10am to 12pm. A brief service will take place at 12 pm and a light luncheon will immediately follow. All will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3701 Jefferson Ave., Midland, MI 48640. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com All sympathy store items must be sent directly to the family home.