Obituary of Tracey Lynn DeGraff

Tracey L. (Grimes) DeGraff, 52, of Dowagiac, Michigan, passed away on February 13, 2022, at her home surrounded by those she loved and who adored her. She was born on February 12, 1970, in Berrien Center, Michigan to the late Lois M. Grimes. Tracey was blessed to have been raised by her stepfather, Bill Weimer, who came into her life at a very young age and has continued to be an integral part into her adulthood. On May 1, 1993, she married Daniel DeGraff at a ceremony in Niles, Michigan and their loved only continued to grow. Dan and Tracey spent their life cherishing one another and pouring themselves into their family. This act of selflessness was a theme that ran through her entire life; she was happiest when she was serving others, whether family, friends, or those she was privileged enough to care for through her work. Tracey worked as a home manager for LADD Corporation, and, in that time, has made a difference in hundreds of her residents’ lives. When not at work Tracey and Dan enjoyed time on the Harley with their close knit group. She also loved summer days in the pool and time at the beach. She had perfected her wine tasting pallet and enjoyed trying out local wineries as well as new ones during traveling adventures. Tracey’s passion was her family, both close and extended. Her upbeat attitude was almost like a magnet and many times she was the life of the party. Hearing voices call out Grandma, Grammie, or Big Mom Mom put both a smile on her face and filled her heart. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Daniel DeGraff of Dowagiac; children, Ashley “Barky” (Steven Thompson) Below of Valparaiso, Indiana; Daniel (Whitney) DeGraff of Edwardsburg; Brandon (Brittany) DeGraff of Dowagiac; seven grandchildren; Aaron Below, Alexander Below, Kaeden Meadows, Chaz Below, Hunter DeGraff, Paisleigh DeGraff, and Jaxon DeGraff; siblings; Beth Ropp of Ludington, Dwight (Terry) Weimer of Niles, Amanda Adkins of Niles, John (Kristin) Furner of Escanaba, Alan (Kate) Furner of Niles; father Bill (Marie) Weimer, mother-in-law Sandra DeGraff of Dowagiac; and special niece, Skielar Weimer. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lois Weimer. Memorial contributions in Tracey’s memory may be directed to Tracey’s family. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, 61453 M-51. Niles, Michigan. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service. Burial will follow the service. Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com. A special thank you to “mom” Sandy DeGraff, for all of the love, care, time together. The glisten in her eyes and laugh that could fill a room will be missed by those who loved her. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, of Niles.