Philip Sean Graves
May 28, 1966 - July 15, 2023
Philip Sean Graves, age 57, of New Prague, passed unexpectedly at his home with his family at his side on Saturday, July 15, 2023. Philip was born on May 28, 1966 in Minneapolis to Philip and Inez (Lawler) Graves, Jr. He graduated from Washburn High School and went on to attend the University of Minnesota and Hennepin Technical College. He was employed as the Director of Fleet Maintenance at Lake Country.
During high school, Philip met a young woman who would immediately capture his heart. Michelle Maskiell was working at Valley Fair and met Philip while planning a double date. The two felt an immediate connection and went on to become fast friends, dated on and off, and eventually went their separate ways. Years later, they reconnected and talked on the phone for 13 hours, realized that they were always meant to be together and finally married on July 24, 2010 in Belle Plaine, MN. Philip was always bigger than life, captivating the company he was in with his smile and always being the first to offer help wherever it was needed. He loved anything to do with cars, whether it was fixing them up to resell, painting them, building and playing with remote control cars with his kids. He raced BMX bikesas a kid and even took the championship in one of the races. He was athletic, playing football and running track in high school and taking a state championship in track. His children were the focus of Philip’s life and he was as big a kid as they were, playing video games and collaborating on which new game to get as soon as they came out. He had a penchant for anything fun and his video gaming included Capn’ Crunch and Kool Aid to snack on while gaming. And by the way, ketchup was put on almost everything that Philip ate! Frequent fishing trips to Cedar Lake were a favorite pastime for Philip and Michelle. Philip touched a lot of lives and the loss of his presence has left a hole difficult to fill.
Philip is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Graves of New Prague; children, Nicholas (Ashley) Bustamante, Miles Graves, Blaze Graves, Jazmine Graves, Isabella Bustamante, Philip Graves, Jr.; mother, Inez DeMare; sister, Charissa (Michael) Hulse; furbaby, Lucy. He is preceded in death by his father.
A Celebration of Life open house will be held Monday, July 24, 2023 from 1-7 PM at Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park (25875 Juniper Ave., New Prague, MN). Please bring a dish to share; BBQ will be provided. Balloon release will take place at 6:30 PM.
My heart felt condolences to Michelle and family. I love you all. When I heard of Philips passing today I couldn’t believe my ears. In the the few years I knew him he became like a brother in my heart and mind. I will miss our talks after the last route and having a tasting. His passion for life and his family was beyond measure. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to help someone. The world lost a VERY good man. Mr. Fabulous will live in my heart. He bloomed where he was planted.
My deepest condolences to Inez, Molly, Michelle, Miles, Blaze, Jazmine, Philip Jr and to all that were a part of Philip’s life. He could walk into a room with that radiant smile and instantly you had a friend. His passion for cars was remarkable, he could fix anything and was so proud of it. Video games… just like a little kid with a huge smile on his face. Work…he had such an enormous work ethic, always working hard to provide for his family. Big heart… Philip was always there to help someone. A flat tire, helping to move, driving as… Read more »
All The Memories Of This Brother Will Be Fond. He Was A Part Of Our Family For Most Of His Life. You Will Always Be Remembered With Reverence And A Smile. What An Amazing Man, Father, Brother,Son, Friend! Your Physical Person Will Be Missed, Your Spirt Person Will Be With Us Forever. I Love You Little Brother! Michelle, You Guys Have A Big Family With Us. We Love You And We Are With You.
Sympathies for your family
I have never met a man so passionate about everything he did.
He will be greatly missed by anyone that knew him.
Our deepest sympathy is with your entire family and we keep you in our prayers. Philip made a positive impact with business dealings each day and we will miss him too.
Inez you and your family are in my prayers had not seen your son since he was a young man I understand why you couldn’t stop crying God makes his choice’s I’m blessed to have you as a friend I thank you for that honor keep your chin up he is in Gods hands and will be very safe I will continue to love you and are continued friendship I will always be here for you we will always have New York Love you Duane
Sympathies for your family.
So very sorry for your loss of such a wonderful, family member. Even though I never met him, we are friends of his sweet momma, Inez. You are all in our prayers as you navigate through these next weeks and months.
A bright star has dimmed but Philip will live on in our hearts. Our deepest sympathies to our dear friend Inez and Michelle, Charrisa and the children. You each are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Alexander family, Al, Pam, April and Amanda.
Philip once described the movie “Alien” to me in a bus ride to school. It was an epic tale. I am so sad to hear of his passing. He was a good friend.
Deepest sympathy. Family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers.
My most heartfelt sympathy goes out to all who knew and loved Philip. I will continue to hold my friends close to my heart and be here for them to lean on when they are ready. Sending strength, peace, and comfort to all.
Sarah