Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Erika Graham Obituary

    Born Erika Elfriede Penthor in Vienna, Austria to Johann and Emilie (Zak) Penthor our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Saturday, October4, 2025.

    She married Clifford N. Boyd (div) in 1947, and became a devoted military wife and mother. She lovingly raised her family during numerous assignments which moved them around the world. In January of 1956 she became a naturalized citizen of the United States giving her great pride. However, her Austrian heritage remained closest to her heart. Following 22 years of military life she and her family settled in Colorado Springs in 1965, living in Black Forest for 10 years. She met and married Bruce A. Graham in 1980, and together they bowled, traveled and enjoyed time in the mountains. She worked for Walter Drake and Sons for 25 years, becoming Supervisor of the Printing Department. Erika was the center of our family and her life touched many people. Her memory will live on with those who loved her.

    Erika is survived by her daughter Robin Shafer, 7 grandchildren; Shawn Boyd, Troy Boyd, Spring (Boyd) Jones, Charity Rice, Natalie (Rice) Genovese, Brett Shafer, Haleigh Shafer; 10 great- grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law Colleen Witter, a brother, Paul Penthor and sister Evelyn Tapley and many nieces and nephews.

    She is preceded in death by her sons, Cliff H. Boyd, Jack P. Boyd, a daughter Monica A. Little, husband, Bruce A. Graham and four brothers and sisters.

     Gone to be with God and the angels but never forgotten. We will miss you,

Love your family

      Erika will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Colorado Spring, Colorado.

      A Celebration of Erika's life will be held at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Denver Gazette on Oct. 22, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Erika Graham

Tell your own story about Erika

Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.

Memorial Events
for Erika Graham

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Horan & McConaty Funeral Service & Cremation - North Metro/Thornton

9998 Grant Street, Denver, CO 80229

How to support Erika's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Erika Graham's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more