Robert C. Graham, DVM, 79, of Arthur, died at 5:20 PM Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at Mason Point in Sullivan.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 24, 2012 at the Arthur United Methodist Church, 128 E. Illinois Street, with Pastor Phil Schrock officiating. Burial will follow in the Arthur Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday from 9:30 AM until time of funeral service at the church. Shrader Funeral Home, 431 S. Vine Street, Arthur, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Dr. Graham was born November 4, 1932 in Arthur the son of Dr. Thomas L. Graham, Sr. and Gladys P. (Howard) Graham. He was united in marriage for 60 years to Verneal Fryman in Champaign on August 4, 1951; she survives.

Survivors include his wife Verneal Graham of Arthur; son, John Charles Graham of Peterborough, New Hampshire; daughter, Dr. Mary Beth Graham and husband Dr. Neal Nygard of Brookfield, Wisconsin; special daughter, Vicky Bright and husband Stephen of Arcola; 5 grandsons, Adam and Graham Nygard, Robert and Thomas Graham; special grandson, Patrick Bright; grandaughter, Laura Zangri and husband Dave; special sister-in-law, Betty Graham of Arthur. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas L. "Bud" Graham, DVM; and sister, Lucille.

Dr. Graham graduated from the 5th class of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois in 1957. He was a member of the Illinois American Veterinary Medical Association, National Veterinary Medical Association, past president of the Arthur Business Club, 20-year member of the Moultrie Douglas Fair Board, and a lifetime member of the Arthur United Methodist Church.

Dr. Graham operated his veterinary clinic for 51 years in Arthur, retiring in July, 2008.

Memorials are suggested to the Arthur United Methodist Church or the Arthur EMT Association.

Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.hilligossshraderfh.com