Obituaries : Martin L. Graber, Brigadier General (Retired) and Iowa Representative

Brigadier General (Retired) and Iowa Representative Martin L. Graber, a dedicated soldier, leader, and community servant, passed away January 31, 2025 at Fort Madison, IA. Born in Donnellson, Iowa, he was a graduate of Central Lee High School and went on to serve his country with distinction for over three decades in the Iowa Army National Guard. General Graber enlisted in Company A, 224th Engineer Battalion, in July 1972, beginning a distinguished military career that saw him rise through the ranks. He earned his commission as an Engineer Officer through the OCS program on July 1, 1974. His military education included the U.S. Army War College, Engineer Pre-Command Course, Senior Officer Logistics Management Course, Command and General Staff College, and both the Engineer Officer Advanced and Basic Courses.

Beyond his military achievements, General Graber was an accomplished financial advisor, managing a successful practice with Ameriprise Financial in Fort Madison, Iowa. He earned a Master's in Business Administration from St. Ambrose University in 1987 and a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Relations from the University of Iowa. During his service, he held numerous command and leadership roles, including Company Commander of multiple units within the 224th Engineer Battalion, Battalion Executive Officer, and Battalion Commander. His leadership extended to operations such as REFORGER 1984, Operation Desert Storm with the 8th Infantry Division (Mechanized), and the Floods of 1993, where he served as the Engineer Task Force Commander. His final active-duty assignment was as the Commander of Training Site Command at Camp Dodge, Iowa. General Graber's service was recognized with numerous military decorations and awards, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Superior Unit Award, and the prestigious Bronze and Silver Order of the de Fleury Medals from the Corps of Engineers Regiment.

A devoted husband, father, and community leader, he was married to Coni L. Morrow, a Fort Madison native on May 17, 1975 in Fort Madison, IA. Together, they built a life centered on service and faith, raising their two daughters, Sarah and Rachel (Donaldson), in Fort Madison. He was an active member of the Fort Madison Christian Church and contributed to many local organizations, including the Old Fort Madison Replica, North Lee County Historical Society, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Fort Madison Jaycees, United Way, and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. Representative Graber leaves behind a legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to both his country and community. His unwavering commitment to the values of duty, honor, and service will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Martin is survived by: his wife: Coni Graber of Fort Madison, IA; 2-daughters: Sarah Graber of Fort Madison, IA & Rachel (Preston) Donaldson of Vinton, IA; 2-grandchildren: Adalynn & Elyza Donaldson of Vinton, IA; 6-siblings: Howard (Glenice) Graber of Bonaparte, IA, Pat Dodson of Fort Madison, IA, Barbara Claman of Olympia, WA, Alan Graber of Memphis, MO, Janet (Gary) Haeffner of Donnellson, IA & Jeff (Gayle) Graber of Donnellson, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents & 2-siblings: Frank & Jerry Graber.

Visitation was held on Monday, February 3, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Fort Madison Christian Church, 1029 48th Street, Fort Madison, IA 52627. The funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at Fort Madison Christian Church with Rev. Mike McHugh officiating. Burial will be at Soldiers' Circle in Oakland Cemetery with full military rites. A memorial has been established in Martin's name. Online condolences to the Graber family may be left at the King-Lynk Funeral Home & Crematory website: www.kinglynk.com. Rest in peace, General Graber. Your service and dedication will never be forgotten.