HOLYOKE MA

James died on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at Baystate Medical Center. Born in Niagara Falls as the son of the late James and Josephine (Brigante) Granata. James was the owner/operator of three successful beauty salons before moving to New England for a career as a Licensed Social Worker.  James was instrumental in helping many families in Western Massachusetts. James was a passionate man, and no stranger to hard work as he immersed himself in his hobbies and endeavors. He loved preparing good food and parlayed this into a successful catering business. He turned his love for antiques and reading into Curiosities, a book store and antique shop. James was always willing to lend a hand. He served as President of the Cerebral Palsy Association, a Library Volunteer who worked with Literacy Volunteers and taught English as a Second Language, he'd served as a Niagara County Suicide Prevention Hotline Counselor, and was a visible participant in many local elections. James is survived by his wife, Dr. Barbara (Camp), his daughter Dana Zuber (Ken), two grandchildren, Lauren Rutherford and Jacob Zuber, his twin brother Michael Granata (Roseanne), and brother Samuel Granata (Cheryl), an aunt Jean McGinley, and several nieces and nephews. James was predeceased by his brothers Frank and Charles, and his sister Ida Shaw. Along with dancing all over the world with Barbara, James was an avid reader who loved Art, History, and Romance languages. James pursued his passions well: Husband, Father, Grandfather, Son, Brother, Nephew, Uncle, Godfather, In-law, Provider, Globetrotter, Dancer, Artist, Chef, Linguist, Historian, Caterer, Advisor, Shaman, Spirit Guide, Confidante, and Yankee Pedlar... The list goes on, as will the fond and fun memories of this wonderful, engaging man. Services will be held in Niagara Falls at a later date. Arrangements are being made through Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home in Holyoke, MA. Memorial donations may be made to Open Arms Rescue of WNY http://www.oarwny.org/