Aaron M. McGraw

Aaron M. McGraw, age 46, of Oil City, PA, formerly of Fairbanks, AK, and Titusville, PA, died on Tuesday morning, January 9, 2018, at his residence.  He was born October 14, 1971, in Sharon, PA, son of the late Gary D. McGraw, who died July 8, 2004, and Brenda L. (Horton) McGraw of Titusville, who survives. 

Aaron graduated from Titusville Senior High School in the class of 1990.  Following high school, he served as a Specialist Grade 4 in the U.S. Army, being stationed at Ft. Wainwright in Fairbanks, AK.  Upon his return to Pennsylvania, Aaron attended the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville where he taught writing in the learning center.  He retired as a therapeutic aide at Polk State Center in Polk, PA, in 2015.

Aaron was a disabled veteran who suffered from severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, the result of a nighttime tent fire and explosion that occurred during a platoon training exercise on a glacier near Fairbanks.  The tragedy claimed the lives of two of his best friends.  Aaron had a close relationship with his mother and brother who helped and supported him as he struggled with his disability.       

Along with his mother, Aaron is survived by his sons, Drake and Keagan of Anchorage, his brother Joel D. McGraw of Titusville, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. 

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Paul and Dorothy McGraw, and his maternal grandparents, Clair and Hilda Horton.

Aaron will be remembered for his wit and creativity.  His mind was a compendium of historical facts and literary knowledge.  His sense of humor entertained others while temporarily focusing his attention on the lighter elements of life.  A fishing enthusiast as early as preschool, Aaron studied and explored nature.  Some of his happiest days were spent cycling with friends.

A graveside service is planned for spring when Aaron's ashes will be buried beside his father in Riverside Cemetery, Tionesta, PA.  Date and time will be announced.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Norman J. Wimer Funeral Home of Tionesta. 

Memorial contributions may be made either to DAV – Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH  45250-0301, or to Sarah Stewart Bovard Memorial Library, P.O. Box 127, 156 Elm Street, Tionesta, PA  16354.