Marcheta J Graciano

Marcheta “Rocky” Graciano, a 56 year resident of the Sierra Vista community, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, friendship, and love July 12, 2024.

Marcheta was born in Wynot, Nebraska, February 1, 1925. Her courageous spirit would lead her all over the world and take her on many adventures. Upon graduating from high school she set her sights on moving to Denver, Colorado to begin her first of many adventures. While in Denver she worked as part of the Red Cross effort to help injured soldiers. It was at this hospital where she met her husband Alfonso “Al” Graciano. They were married in 1945 and loved one another for 69 years before his passing July 20, 2014.

Marcheta and Al moved to Sierra Vista, Arizona in 1968, where they would spend the rest of their lives. Marcheta was a devoted military wife to Al Graciano and loving mother to Linda and Cecelia all of whom have predeceased her. Marcheta exemplified strength and resilience throughout her life.

Her career as a civil servant and secretary to several base commanders was marked by professionalism and personal recognition. Notorious for her tenacity and quick wit, she was given the nickname “Rocky” after working for a general who was a boxing enthusiast. Rocky Marciano was a boxing champion at the time, and the general stated “She is way tougher than that guy!” The nickname Rocky was created and it epitomizes her inner strength.

She spent her retirement volunteering and tutoring adult English language learners which she enjoyed immensely. Marcheta also loved spending time with her grandchildren and sharing her love of food and recipes with them. Marcheta’s passions included sports and bridge, through which she formed lasting friendships and touched many lives. She will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering spirit.

Marcheta is survived by her son-in-law Dieter Bredel and wife Karla Finch (Sierra Vista), her grandchildren Eliza Oldham (Phoenix, Arizona), Zane Niegodski (Phoenix, Arizona), Miles and Anderson Gardin (Phoenix, Arizona) and one great great granddaughter Cecelia Krost (Phoenix, Arizona). She leaves behind a family that will continue to cherish her memory and the many values she instilled in them.

A private memorial service will be held at the Veteran Memorial Cemetery on August 2nd at 2:00 p.m. It is requested to arrive at the staging area no later than 1:40 p.m. The family kindly requests that,

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory be made to The Salvation Army

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