Elmer A. Granchelli, 93, major commercial developer in Lockport | Featured Obituaries

Mr. Granchelli, a Lockport native, graduated from Lockport Senior High School in 1947. He was offered a football scholarship to the University of Buffalo, Price said.

But it wasn’t a full scholarship, and Mr. Granchelli and his family couldn’t raise the dollars, so Mr. Granchelli didn’t go to college. Instead, he took factory jobs in Lockport, first with Simonds Saw & Steel Co., and later with Harrison Radiator Division of General Motors.

Deciding to work for himself, Mr. Granchelli started a small plumbing, wiring and mechanical services company before focusing on commercial real estate.

“He believed in hard work, long hours and taking risks to achieve this,” said a family statement. “For him, happiness is when opportunity and hard work come together. He humbly said that with more ambition than money, more nerves than knowledge, and more hope than prospects, he started in the city he loved. “

“He’s been the gentlest man and leader and mentor,” said Alaimo, a 35-year-old clerk, who said she will continue his business under the guidance of Mr. Granchelli’s widow and children.

“He was a kind, wonderful man and he will be missed, but we will carry on his legacy and make it even more extraordinary in his honor. We will make him proud, for sure,” said Alaimoimo.