About Bob Graf

Bob Graf was a great soft-toned tenor-saxophonist who never fully achieved fame in his short lifespan. Although he was well-known in the St. Louis jazz circles, it was truly a shame he didn’t strive for a farther reach. As Bob’s heirs and children, we have dedicated this website to his legacy.

Bob Graf's Timeline

• Bob Graf was born in St. Louis, Missouri on April 16, 1927. He was an only child to his parents, Otto and Emily (nee Derda), immigrants from Germany. Upon Otto's entry into the United States, he dropped his birth name of Graf von Zeppelin using just 'Graf'. Otto had a regal and famous heritage as his uncle was Ferndinand Graf von Zeppelin. Otto had a successful career as a Vice President of a tool and die company in St. Louis and Emily was employed by Southwestern Bell when it first started. It is believed that Otto and Emily met and resided in Breese, Illinois, before moving to the big city of St. Louis. 

• Little is known about Bob's childhood - sad I know. We hope that this website will stir the pot and bring forward information we may not be aware of. 

• Fast forward to the 1950s. Bob marries Helen Martin and has two sons - Bob Jr. and Kirby. Both sons were musicians. Kirby passed away at the tender young age of 21. Bob Jr. still writes and plays music in St. Louis. 

• After a divorce, Bob married Martha (nee Hanson). Bob was 12 years her senior but that didn't deter their passionate love. They had two daughters, Vicki Feltz and Melodi McCraine. Neither daughter pursued music but Melodi (the author of this website) has a son that carries on the musical DNA.   

• Bob died way too young on August 27, 1981 at the age of 52.