George J. "Jr. Grates" Grizzuto

FRANKFORT – George J. “Jr. Grates” Grizzuto, aged 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 19, 2024, after numerous years of health challenges. Janet, his dear wife, was by his side and his beloved family as well comforted one another. Born in Frankfort on December 1, 1943, George was the son of the late George Grates and Lucy (Teso) Grizzuto. He was a graduate of Frankfort-Schuyler Central School/Class of 1961. He maintained longtime relationships with the friends he met there, and enjoyed their yearly class reunions... they were forever friends. He was an avid sportsman. He participated in wrestling and was a Section 3 RE Champion. George wrestled under the direction of infamous Coach Joe Campo, earning honors during the 1960-61 season, when he was undefeated, winning 26 consecutive bouts. He also enjoyed playing football and baseball, showing all around sports enthusiasm and talent. George continued his education at Lycoming College from 1961-1963, where he concentrated his studies on liberal arts. George then graduated from Kerpel School of Dental Technology in 1971, preparing for his artistic work in dental technology. His father was always a force behind his good decisions to continue his education. On July 28, 1990, George married the former Janet M. Bolos, embracing not only a wife but her daughter Melissa. A gentleman, he provided stability to their lives, and a new blessed family became one. They spent nearly 34 years together, and have memories of how they remained by each other’s side during times of joy, and at times of need. George began his career with the Village of Frankfort Police Department, before continuing on to Remington Arms. After his schooling, he accepted a position as a Laboratory Technician at Parker Dental Lab, working his way up to be a dental technician, the title he held when he retired after 34 years in his chosen profession. Following his retirement, George enjoyed working part-time for L.B. Security. He was a man who could never remain idle! Known for his passion for documenting family affairs, George converted 72 photo albums into digital form, creating a treasured family legacy. Family was paramount. His siblings and his nieces and nephews fondly remember always learning something new from George. Whether watching the History Channel or following sports stats, many interesting discussions were had. His parents, a respected Italian family, lived a lifestyle that was rich in traditions such as having face-to-face conversations, and an open-door homestead... it was a Frankfort thing. He loved reminiscing about those good old days and sharing knowledge. This lifestyle provided a strong core value that was the foundation of his happiness. George was always mindful of the kind of life that he was blessed with and the meaningful memories that always filled his heart. He remained loyal to the Frankfort Police Benevolent Association. George found pleasure in playing the keyboard, which he did so by ear. He gave testimony that it came from his musical family. In later years, he played for Janet, and she was entertained by his choices of their favorite songs, always uplifting her day. George and Janet enjoyed many years at their camp on the St. Lawrence River, where they found delight in fishing, boating, and hosting family gatherings. The ultimate pleasure was the serenity of the setting and that was their “happy place.” George and his brother Joe, loved rummaging through garage sales while they were at “the River.” They discovered precious sports memorabilia, tools that they didn’t need, and they would find some of the best things at the “hot spots” of the Thousand Islands. He was a master of fixing things, and if he took one of your articles in need of repair to his precious workspace, you could be sure it would be returned done to perfection. George had a mental inventory of all the items that he had at his home, inclusive of vintage toys from his childhood. George was a spiritual man, relying on the Lord for strength. The fact that George was a true gentleman, and a kind-hearted person, he knew that Janet was the woman who could complete his life. Their relationship evolved as they became one and did what was best for each other during a good life lived. He is survived by the love of his life, Janet; he was “bonus Dad” to Melissa and Anthony Rocco; and “Pop” to Martino, and Milana Rocco. He will be remembered by his cherished sister and brother-in-law, Ann Marie and Joseph "Tony" Oliver. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Barbara Grizzuto. He further leaves his memory to his nieces and nephews, Lori (Grizzuto) and Greg Foster, Mike and Jeannie Grizzuto, Chris and Renee Grizzuto; Daniel Oliver and Sarah Patrei, and Michael Oliver; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; in-laws, Joyce (Bolos) Showalter and the late Charles "Chuck" Showalter, and Sonia (Giangi) Bolos and the late Joseph T. Bolos. He was preceded by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Joan (Bolos) and Roger Farney. George's friendships, particularly with the late Brian Jones, and Tony Simonette, were so precious. He called everybody “Cuz,” and everyone in his life had a nickname – that’s another Frankfort thing. What a life he lived! He adored and always kept close to his heart the memory of his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Toufek S. “Toufie” and Ardell (Shalhobe) Bolos. Special thank you to Dr. Thomas John and his associate Shannon. They provided encouragement and were inspiring in their care of George. During his medical care, he was fortunate to have the blessings of great caretakers, namely nurse Anita from MVHS St. Luke’s dialysis, as well as nurses, and physical therapists who expressed genuine kindness, who will never be forgotten. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, January 26, 2024, from 1:15 - 2:15 p.m. at Historic Old St. John's Church, 240 Bleecker St. George’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life will commence at 2:30 p.m. at the church. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in George's honor may be made to the Frankfort Police Dept., Town Hall, 201 Third Ave., Frankfort, NY 13340, and New Hope, ℅ Big Apple Music, 8441 Seneca Turnpike, Suite E, New Hartford, NY, 13413; envelopes will be made available at the service. In the springtime of the year George will be laid to rest in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Frankfort.

George J. "Jr. Grates" Grizzuto

December 1, 1943 - January 19, 2024