Michael Graf

Michael Joseph Graf passed away suddenly in Onancock, Virginia, on June 22, 2026.

Born on June 17, 1958, Michael was raised in New Canaan, Connecticut. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Fairfield University before serving two years in the United States Navy.

Over the course of his distinguished 45-year career, Michael became widely respected throughout the fixed-income industry for his technical expertise, leadership, and mentorship. He began his career as a programmer at Arthur Young, where he developed software for some of the earliest personal computers, including the original Macintosh, before transitioning into finance at Lehman Brothers in 1985. Over the following four decades, he held senior trading and leadership positions at Merrill Lynch, Barclays Capital, Amherst Pierpont, and Mischler Financial Group. Among his many accomplishments, he served as Head of USD Rates Trading at Barclays Capital before concluding his career as Managing Director of Fixed Income at Mischler Financial Group and retiring to Onancock, Virginia, in 2025. An interesting fact: Mike had never taken a formal finance course.

Mike was known not only for his financial acumen, but also for his quick wit, dry sense of humor, and love of practical jokes. Colleagues admired his mentorship and generosity, while family and friends appreciated his curiosity, intelligence, and willingness to lend a hand. A lifelong learner, Mike delighted in understanding how things worked and solving problems both large and small. He took great pride in being able to repair almost anything.

He especially loved sailing and treasured traveling aboard his boat with his children. He also enjoyed cooking, entertaining, listening to music, dancing, and skiing.

Michael is survived by his daughter, Sophie M. Graf of Louisville, Kentucky; his son, Conrad Z. Graf of New Orleans, Louisiana; and the mother of his children, Rezan C. Zia of Pound Ridge, New York; his sisters, Margaret A. Labesky of Snow Hill, Maryland; Susan L. Fennell of Hertford, North Carolina; Marybeth Graf-Brohawn of Frisco, Colorado; and Kathleen J. O'Brien of Austin, Texas; his brothers-in-law, Anthony V. Labesky and David W. Fennell; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret K. Graf (née Steele) and Edwin J. Graf Jr., and his brother, Edwin J. Graf III.

Michael's family has been deeply touched by the many friends and colleagues who have shared memories of his mentorship, friendship, humor, and remarkable career. Your stories have been a tremendous comfort and a reminder of the lasting impact he had on so many lives. Those who knew Mike through his professional life are warmly invited to join his family in celebrating his life.

Interment will be held at St. John’s Cemetery, 3480 St John’s Lane, Ellicott City, Md. 21042, at 11:00 am on July 10, 2026. A Celebration of Michael’s Life will follow at The Iron Bridge Wine Company, 10435 MD-108, Columbia, Md., 21044, from 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Onancock Rotary Club, PO Box 278, Onancock, Va. 23417.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www. Doughtyfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements made by Doughty Funeral Home in Exmore, Virginia.