James B. Gravante

James B. Gravante, 82, of East Norwalk, entered into his Lord's Eternity on Sunday, October  7, 2018 at home with family and his dear caregiver at his side.  Born in Manhattan, New York, raised in Brooklyn, the son of the late Leonard and Sara (Chiarello) Gravante, he was the beloved husband of Rose F. (Mazzeo) Gravante for 56 years until her death in 2017.  He spent the majority of his career in public service as a Lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York City.  While he enjoyed his roles in land response and inspection units, protecting the citizenry on the fireboats of the Department was the true love of his labors.  James found much joy in helping out friends and family whenever they were in need.  He also had a “slight affinity” for car collection as anyone familiar with his former Cannon Street residence could observe.
James was preceded in death by his beloved brother Nicholas Gravante, Sr., his dear sister-in-law Ann Marshall and brother-in-laws Vincent Macchiarulo and Henry Messina and be sorely missed by  nephews Joseph Messina and Vincent P. Macchiarulo,  He is survived by his children: Anthony Gravante, Sara Gravante and husband Doug Harriott, Carmela Gravante and husband Paul Gunnells, and Leonard Gravante. His grandchildren: Jonathan Harriott, Milena Gravante Gunnells, Carina Gravante Gunnells, and Alex Harriott.  His sister Angela Macchiarulo, sisters-in-law Elinor Gravante and Dee Messina His nieces: Carmella Errico, Christine Castellano, Christina Pecoraro, and Marisa “Mouse” DiMeglio. His  nephews Nicholas Gravante, Jr., Richard S. Gravante and Paul Macchiarulo.  With a special note, his dear, loving caregiver Janet Chin See.  Nurses Sandra Stern and Laurie Roberson.
     His  family will receive friends on Thursday, October 11 from from 7 to 9 pm  and Friday, October, 12, from  4 to 8 pm at the Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Ave., Norwalk.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 13, at St. Philip Church, Norwalk, with entombment to follow at St. John Cemetery.  Although cancer was unrelated to cause of death, the family encourages support of local research.  Therefore, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rallye for Pancreatic Cancer, Inc., 49 Cove Avenue, Norwalk, CT  06855.