Rhonda Lynn Graef

Rhonda Lynn Graef, 67, of Lafayette, Indiana, left this world on September 6th, 2026, after an extended illness, which she fought with all the strength of her amazing spirit. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, colleague, friend, co-worker, and volunteer.

She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on November 26, 1958, to Ronald Louis Graef and Grace (Ellis) Graef and grew up in Greendale, Wisconsin and Kokomo, Indiana.

Rhonda received a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture from Iowa State University. After working in the research field for a time in Iowa, she took a position as an Agricultural Research Technician with the National Erosion Soil Research Laboratory (NSERL) in West Lafayette, Indiana. This work became her passion and her life for twenty-two years.

Rhonda’s colleagues at NSERL gave the following tribute: “Rhonda Graef’s work at the National Soil Erosion Research Lab was a vital part of our Lab’s success. She juggled many projects and helped expedite research that created data streams that our scientists used to write their research papers and ultimately translate to real impact on people through agricultural production and environmental quality. She worked with countless students over the years, teaching and enabling them to complete their research, much like a ‘lab mom’, being firm yet supportive. The NSERL staff fondly remember her sense of humor and how her kind and humble spirit spilled over onto her co-worker’s kids and dogs. She is severely missed and we are dedicated to remembering all her contributions going forward.”

Rhonda had a special place in her heart for rescue animals. She welcomed four dogs into her life (Jake, Sadie, Misty and Sydney) and gave each one a loving home, devoted care, and the happiest life she could give them. Rhonda also impacted the lives of countless local dogs and their human guardians for many years as a dedicated volunteer board member for the Dog Park Association of Greater Lafayette, and Paws Support Network in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, and as a friend and member of the Shamrock Dog Park community. Rhonda spent years supporting and advocating for local animal shelters and rescues.

She was like a second mom to her beloved niece and nephew, Maggie and Maxfield. She loved them dearly and treasured every moment they shared. She was always there for them with her love, laughter, and unwavering support. She took great joy in watching them grow and was so proud of the people they have become.

Rhonda enjoyed working in her home garden and growing organic food. She loved playing word games and cards, and going on outdoor travel adventures with friends and family.

Her quick wit and wonderful sense of humor often brought laughter to everyone. Rhonda was a selfless supporter of her family members' dreams and projects, and we always knew that help was just a phone call away. We are so grateful for her tireless willingness to help.

We, her family members, will hold Rhonda’s memory forever in our hearts.

Rhonda was preceded in death by all Grandparents, her first mother Grace and her father Ronald. Rhonda is survived by her second mother, Louise Graef, her siblings Renee Graef (Bruce Malm), Gregory Graef (Pamela), Holly Graef, and David Graef, her niece Maggie Laughner and nephew Max Laughner, and dog Sydney.

Rhonda requested no formal gathering or service. A private gathering for family will be held at a future date. Rhonda requested that contributions in her honor be directed to Loving Heart Animal Shelter (monetary or wish list items): https://www.lovingheartanimalshelter.org/ or Almost Home Humane Society: https://www.almosthomehumane.org/.

"Her absence is like the sky, spread over everything." ~ C.S. Lewis