Sharif Gratz-4-15-2023

Sharif Abdul Kabir Charles Gratz, "Riffey," 38, of Eatontown, NJ, passed away Monday, March 27, 2023, at home. He was born on September 26, 1984, at Beth Israel Hospital in Belville, NJ.

Sharif graduated from Monmouth County Vocational High School earning a diploma and a certificate in plumbing. Following in the footsteps of his uncle's Keven and Lawrence Yarbrough, he made the decision to enlist in the US Army. Sharif remained in the military for 8 years, during which time he was stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, Korea, Germany, and Kuwait. While on active duty, Sharif earned: the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star. After his last deployment, he left the U.S. Army with the rank of sergeant (E-5).

Sharif attended Lincoln Tech Institute, earning certificates in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), and Electrical and Electronic Systems Technology.

Sharif enjoyed cooking, spending time with his family and friends, and telling jokes that made everyone laugh. He would often share the thoughts and opinions he gained from his experiences in life. He gained so much joy from pushing his nephew Omari on the swing and spending time with his goddaughter, Heavin Pierce.

Sharif was predeceased by his father Hilton Gratz Sr., grandparents Charles & Mary Yarbrough, and Lena Gratz; uncles Gerald Munson, Steven Gratz, William Gratz, and Valerie Gratz (aunt).

He leaves to mourn Katherleen Gratz, Omar & Holly Gratz, Hilton Banks, nephews Omar Gratz Jr., Omari Gratz, and Jayden Sciarappa, nieces Hiltiona Banks, and Destiny Moore; Godfather Gregory Warner; aunts & uncles Arnold & Gloria Yarbrough, Lawrence & Cynthia Yarbrough, Keven Yarbrough, Tommie and Terri Dean, Marvin & Wanda Jetter, Henry & Isabel Hill, Vanessa Munson and a host of relatives, colleagues and friends.