Obituary of Weldon Robert Graham
Weldon Robert Graham passed away at home in the early hours of Sunday, July 5, 2026. Weldon was born in Ottawa, Ontario, on March 13, 1937, to the late Weldon Douglas Graham and Ruth Florence Graham.
Weldon grew up in Ottawa and Oxford Mills, graduating from North Grenville High School in 1956. He later earned a Bachelor of Science from Carleton University in 1968, followed by a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration in 1975. He went on to have a successful career working for both the Treasury Board and External Affairs as a Director.
Weldon married the love of his life, Ruth Harriet Graham, on September 8, 1962. They met at a young age, as their families grew up together in Oxford Mills. Ruth often says she fell in love with Weldon when she was just 11 years old. The couple were just two months shy of celebrating their 64th wedding anniversary. Weldon leaves behind three children, Caroline Somers (née Graham), Doug Graham (married to Heather Bishop), and Andrew Graham; five grandchildren, Caitlin Yach (née Graham) (married to Cody Yach), James Somers, Cameron Somers (married to Kelsey Somers née Campbell), Logan Graham, and Emma Graham; two great-grandchildren, Findlay Yach and Lily Yach (and one more on the way, Sofia Somers).
Weldon is also survived by his siblings Doug Graham, John Graham, Nancy Graham, Bill Graham, and Debbie Drew (née Graham). He is predeceased by his brother, Tom Graham.
Outside of his love for his family, Weldon was a passionate sports fan. He never missed the NCAA March Madness Tournament, proudly cheering on the Florida Gators. He faithfully followed the Toronto Blue Jays, often discussing the latest game with his grandson, James. He rooted for the Toronto Raptors, cheered on the Buffalo Bills—often proudly wearing his Doug Flutie jersey—and always hoped that one day the Ottawa Senators would bring home the Stanley Cup.
Weldon also had a plethora of interests, including music. He was always listening to an eclectic mix of music—from classical to pop—through his headphones. He loved playing instruments and could often be found at the piano, though he also knew how to play the trumpet.
Weldon found joy in being creative. He loved painting, working in both oils and acrylics. One of his family's favourite paintings was Boy in the Blue Hat, inspired by a photograph of his grandson Cameron as a toddler wearing a blue baseball hat. He was an avid reader and writer, spending countless hours coming up with story ideas and either saving them in a binder or sending them to his eldest granddaughter, Caitlin, to read.
Weldon loved the outdoors. Having grown up on a farm and later spending many winters in Florida, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, and working on his cars. He also loved flying RC planes and was a member of the Dunrobin RC Flyers club. He was an avid collector of everything from stamps to firearms.
Weldon will be remembered for his devotion to family, his strong opinions (he loved a good-spirited debate, especially about politics), his will to live his life to the fullest, and the passion he had for everything he cared about. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Weldon's life will be held at Cole Funeral Services at Pinecrest Cemetery on Tuesday, July 14, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one of Weldon's favourite charities, including MS Canada, the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, Ottawa Stray Cat Rescue, or Freedom Dog Rescue.
