John Graziano

John P. Graziano, 91, of Basking Ridge, N.J., passed away Oct. 1, 2006.

He was born in New York, N.Y., on May 13, 1915. John Graziano was a successful businessman and enjoyed a 45-year career with Charles Pfizer Inc., as a regional sales and service manager.

His wife, Rita, was the light of his life for 65 years. He was an honest man, devoted husband, good father and considered an "icon" by his neighbors in Basking Ridge.

He particularly enjoyed driving his '78 Buick around town and shared an interest in gardening with Rita.

With his son Rocky, he shared his interest in baseball. Both John and Rocky enjoyed watching the New York Giants at the polo grounds in New York. Alas, when the Giants moved to the West Coast, John became attached to the New York Yankees and Rocky eventually became attached to the New York Mets. Between them, they shared many happy moments in discussion over statistics and other tidbits of baseball history.

John's wisdom and insight will be missed by all.

He is survived by his loving wife, Margherita Graziano; faithful son, Peter "Rocky" Graziano; and two attentive grandchildren, Michael Graziano and Pauline Graziano. John will be fondly remembered by both of his daughter-in-laws, Margaret Graziano and Sandra Stoutenburg, along with several other family members and close friends.

A memorial service for John took place Oct. 9, 2006, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory maybe made to support Whitefish youth Cal Ripken baseball through Whitefish Baseball, Inc.