Obituary of James J. Rank

James J. Rank James J. Rank, 94, of Rome, passed away on December 15, 2021, at Bethany Gardens Nursing and Rehabilitation Center after a long illness. He was born in Buffalo, N.Y. on June 18, 1927, a son of Esther Alf Rank. Jim was a graduate of St. Mark’s High School of Buffalo, and later went on to attend Canisius College, where he played basketball and baseball, competing in the Little Three Conference, consisting of Canisius College, Niagara University and St. Bonaventure University. On September 20, 1945, Jim enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country until December 13, 1946. He was united in marriage to Celine T. McGrath, (Tessie), in 1955, in St. Peter’s Church of Rome. Celine passed away on March 29, 2005. Jim was employed by Revere Copper & Brass as an Industrial Sales representative until his retirement in 1989. Jim was a member of St. Mary’s / St. Peter’s Church and life member of the Rome Elks Lodge #96, where he enjoyed good times with many friends and fellow Elks. He was an avid golfer; earning a hole-in-one at the Rome Country Club, bowler, fisherman, and overall sports enthusiast. He was a member of the Mohawk Glen Golf Course. Jim loved to spend time with family, friends and his chocolate lab, Witten. He enjoyed traveling and especially spending Spring and Fall on Cape Cod, with family. He will be remembered as a practical joker who was often the life of the party. Jim also enjoyed tending to his beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. He is survived by his cherished children, Mary and Tom Brognano, Carrie and David Fragapane all of Rome; James and Nancy Rank, Rochester, Carden and Laura Rank, Verona; grandchildren, Courtney (John) Langan, Michael and Bridget Rank, Tommy (Emily) Brognano, David and Lyndsey “The Raes” Brognano; two great grandchildren, Keagan Celine and Brian-Kayden Langan; a brother -in-law, David Greene of Wisconsin; several nieces and nephews; many special friends who visited Jim in the nursing home often playing music, reminiscing, and bringing laughter and joy. The family wishes to thank the entire staff of Bethany Gardens for their amazing dedication, compassion and wonderful care that was provided to Jim, (Jimmy), during his stay. Memorial contributions may be made to MVHS Stroke Center- 1656 Champlin Ave, Utica, NY 13502 or a charity of one’s choice. A Mass of Christian Burial along with Military Honors will be held on Monday, December 20, 2021, at 11 A.M. At St. Peter’s Church. Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 10 - 11 A.M. prior to the service. Burial will take place in St. Peter’s Cemetery. As Dad would say: “I Love You, ‘TA-TA’, for now”…Until We Meet Again. James Rank