Mark Graw

Mark Edward Graw, fondly known as "V-Man" or "Fish," passed away on September 2, 2024. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA on August 3, 1962 to the late Louis Graw and Jane (Wertheim) Graw. His heart belonged to the love of his life, Staci, for the past 23 years. He was the most amazing dad to daughters Valerie (Zack) and Alissa. He is also survived by brothers John (Cindy), James (Barb), Ricky (Leigh), several nieces and nephews, and an innumerable number of friends who he considered family. Mark instantly filled a room with infectious laughter. He would encourage the shyest of people to get up and dance with him. Whether you were a dear friend or someone he had just met, he made you feel like you had known each other for a lifetime. He was known for buying drinks for the whole bar, and he never missed a chance to buy a lottery or gun ticket. If there was fun to be had, V-Man was there. Beyond the infectious laughter, his generosity knew no bounds - he was the first to jump at the opportunity to help someone. Mark worked until the job was done…unless there was a Steelers game on, then he'd do it later. Every morning, Mark called for his best friend, "Buddy," the fattest cat you'll ever see, for his "morning scratchin's" on the kitchen chair. Buddy stayed by his side as he did his crossword and Sudoku puzzles and then begged for a piece of cheese from his breakfast sandwich. Mark gave him more cheese than he'd ever tell you. Mark would often be seen walking around barefoot, drinking an Iron City, and covered in dirt from his beloved garden. If he wasn't walking around outside, he was looking through binoculars identifying bird species or shooting crows and racoons with a BB gun from the deck. Then, he'd spend time winning card games and announcing himself as the "undefeated, undisputed, champion of the world!" That was right after he said, "Grab me a beer while you're down there!" He was also an amazing cook, often putting too much cayenne pepper in his meals. He loved hunting and making his own deer sticks with his friends. If you told Mark you needed something, he'd often go digging in the shed to more than likely find the item you needed. If not, he would always rig something that would get the job done anyways. His love and warmth were felt deeply by everyone who crossed his path, and his absence leaves a tremendous void. We loved him more than words can explain and will forever do so. The world was brighter, louder, and more fun with him in it. Mark's life will be celebrated on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial service and celebration of life at The Export Moose (5903 Washington Ave, Export, PA 15632) at 11:00 am, led by Pastor Dan. Casual attire is encouraged. Please join us to honor his wishes of having the most incredible party with loud laughter, good food, cold beer, and the sharing of our fondest memories of him. In lieu of flowers, Mark has requested any donations be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.