Alan Edmund Graykowski

HELOTES, Texas — Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Alan Edmund Graykowski, 55, of Helotes, passed away on Monday, July 8, 2013.

A funeral Mass will be held Friday, Aug. 2, at 9 a.m. in the Main Post Chapel, 1605 Wilson Way 78234, at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

Alan was born Feb. 19, 1958, in Ironwood, Mich., and was a member of Luther L. Wright High School’s class of 1976. Alan loved his hometown of Ironwood, but was proud to be called a Texan, as he loved the climate that afforded him his love of motorcycle riding.

Alan entered the U.S. Army in 1977. He retired in 2007 as a sergeant major at Camp Bullis in San Antonio with more than 30 years of military service. Sgt. Maj. Graykowski’s awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and National Defense Service Medal. Alan served his country with pride, integrity and honor.

Alan held an Associate of Science degree from Troy State University, a Bachelor of Science degree from Wayland Baptist University and a Master of Arts degree in management from Webster University.

Upon retirement, Alan began a second career at Lackland Air Force Base as the lead asset manager.

Alan was preceded in death by his father, Edmund Graykowski, and mother, Ethel Florence Graykowski.

He is survived by his fiancee, Karen Bolton; daughter, Aimee Graykowski; and dad to Karen’s children, Taylor Buttelmann and Joanne Gallagher; sister, Cheryl Graykowski; granddaughter, Kailey Mason; and all of Karen’s family who loved and respected Alan for the man he was and the generosity he showed them.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Ronald McDonald House or any charity of your choice.

Alan wished to be cremated and one day taken for his last motorcycle ride to the hill country, where he and Karen enjoyed riding so much.

Babe, save a place for me.

Your sweetie, Karen.