Henry John Graafstra
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It is with heavy hearts that we mark the passing of our beloved father and husband, Henry. Henry was born in Stanwood, Washington on February 14, 1928, to Ernest and Anna Graafstra. After moving to Marysville, Washington, he would meet his future wife, Betty, while attending Shoultes Elementary School. He would later move to Snohomish, Washington, where he would play basketball for the Panthers. Henry and Betty were married on June 4, 1948 in Everett, Washington. They settled in Marysville and started their own family farm located on Sunnyside Blvd. In 1953 the couple purchased two farms and moved to Arlington, Washington with their two children, and later welcomed two more. In 1956, Henry worked for Washington state working all around delivering to institutions. The family would go on to open their own family business, Country Charm Dairy, in 1973. Country Charm Dairy would go on to process milk, ice cream, etc., and deliver it to stores and restaurants in nearby counties. In 1987 he was one of thirty people chosen from the western states to go on a goodwill trip to Russia. He also earned a lifetime achievement award. Living on their family farm until 2019, Henry and Betty would move to assisted living facilities in Arlington and then Marysville before Henry moved to Arlington Health & Rehabilitation to better support his dementia. Henry is preceded in death by his son Randy in 2020; as well as his seven siblings (5 sisters and 2 brothers). He leaves behind his wife of 72 years, Betty; daughters Janice Miller, Susie (Curt) Kroeze; son Roger; daughter-in-law Stacey; 7 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren. As a family, we would like to thank the staff of Arlington Health & Rehabilitation for being kind and caring throughout his final days. We would also like to thank our family and friends for their love and support through this difficult time. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private funeral service will be held, Saturday February 20, 2021 at Weller Funeral Home with a graveside to follow at Arlington Municipal Cemetery.