Thomas Francis Graven

Thomas Francis "Tom" Graven, 84, of Cambridge, was carried away by the angels on Saturday (November 4, 2017). He was a Precious, Perfect Husband to Patricia Graven; son to Mary (deceased) and Thomas Graven (deceased); brother to Patricia Purcell, James Graven and Theresa Graven (deceased); Proud Father to Lisa Maslo (deceased); Loving Grandfather to Maggie, Haley and Joseph Maslo. He leaves behind his constant companion "Jack", and also "Zera", "Tiny" (who is 25 years old), his cats "Storm," "Hades," "Tokey" and "Sumir".

Tom was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of the F.O.P. Lodge 8 of Cleveland.

Tom was a devoted officer of the Cleveland Police Department for 29 years. Often considered one of the "Happy Hookers," Tom was well known for his dedication to Scofflaw while at CPD. Along with his brother, James, he quickly cleared the Cleveland streets, moving an average of 18 vehicles per day. This number quickly grew to some astounding 30 to 40 vehicles per day. Within 17 months, he and his brother brought over one million dollars in revenue to the City of Cleveland, landing them both with the nickname of "The Happy Hookers." Following his retirement from CPD, Tom continued employment at the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Department and then serving as a security officer at The Cleveland Museum of Art. A respected member of the Cleveland community, Tom led an extremely colorful life. He made appearances on "Real People" and "The Johnny Carson Show." While employed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, he was even able to meet some celebrities of the time, including Audrey Hepburn, Paul Newman and several cast members of The Blue Angels.

Following retirement, Tom moved to the country to live out his life with his loving wife. It was there that he discovered the wonders of nature, the black snake, the sound of a bullfrog, the tranquil scenery, and the loving community. He continued to serve, even in retirement, although through different means.

Tom possessed a strong passion for generosity, often making donations to organizations such as The Sierra Club, PETA, The National Wildlife Federation, The Wilderness Society, The Fund for Animals, EarthJustice, various National Parks and many more. Along with his famous "One-Liners Jokes," Tom will be remembered for his heart, and his passion to protect and serve by all who knew him.

As an expression of sympathy, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to one of the following organizations: 1) Hospice of Guernsey Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725; 2) Guernsey County Senior Citizens Center, 1022 Carlisle Avenue, Cambridge OH 43725; or 3) Guernsey County Dog Shelter, 62824 Bennett Avenue, Cambridge OH 43725.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday (November 10, 2017) at 10 a.m. at St. Benedict Catholic Church - Christ our Light Parish, Cambridge, with Father Paul Hrezo officiating.

"Every man's life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and died that distinguish one man from another." (Ernest Hemmingway)

Friday, November 10, 2017 10:00 AM

St. Benedict Catholic Church (Christ Our Light Parish) 701 Gomber Avenue Cambridge, OH 43725