Roger J. Grano

Roger J. Grano, 86, of Hartford, has told his last joke. He passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2023 with his family at his side. Born June 10, 1937 and raised in Hartford, Roger was the youngest of nine children of the late Nicholas J. and Angeline (Olivieri) Grano. He was the face of the South End, adored and loved by all, and was a truly generous man. The love and respect from all who knew him, was a testament to who he was.

Roger joined the service on the recommendation of a well-meaning judge. Choosing the Air Force allowed him to see much of America. While stationed in Alaska, he grew and matured, which ignited his desire to serve. After the Air Force, he became a firefighter for the Hartford Fire Department and volunteered for the Search and Rescue Tactical One Unit. He will always be remembered for his delicious meals at the firehouse.

After 27 years of service, mostly on Engine 5, Roger retired as a Lieutenant. He was a member of the Saint Florian Society, served as president for the Fire Police Association, and was also a member of the Firemen's Benevolent Association and BPOE Hartford Elks Club #19.

He owned Brother Bones’ Cafe with his brother “Bonesy” for many years. Here he met many lifelong friends. In addition, he owned and operated the Piper Brook Restaurant in West Hartford for 25 years, where his employees became part of his extended family. His tenure as a restaurateur was his pride and joy, for it was here that he was able to bring together lasting friendships over food, drink and laughter; which he continued at the Arena Patio Restaurant. He began the Round Robin tradition for local restaurants; fondly remembered to this day. He also loved hosting Thanksgiving dinners for family and friends for many years at Piper Brook.

Roger lived his life his way and will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor, ability to tell a joke and his storytelling. Every story had you on the edge of your seat, thinking how real it all seemed, until the inevitable punchline brought you back to Roger’s true humor; a man who loved his own jokes, and could always make you laugh.

He married the love of his life, Florene “Chicky” Grano, in 1962. After her passing in 2010, Roger continued to cherish her memory.

He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Stefanee (Grano) Freeman of East Hartford, Dan Messina; son Steven A. Grano and partner Manny Mendonez of East Hampton; his grandchildren, whom he was devoted to, Rachel (Freeman) Nye and husband Dylan, Dean Grano, and Sebastian Grano; great grandson, Tate Nye; and daughter of the heart, Valerie Lareau. He leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, including friend and nephew, Joseph Grano; buddies Doug Whinnem, Doc Wagner, Arnold Cusano, Lou Cutillo, Marty Quirk, and Paul Lewis. In addition to his parents, Roger was predeceased by his siblings, Joseph J. Grano, Sr., Victor (Manny) Grano, Ann Matteis, Nancy Tarquinio, Rose Drena, Albert Grano, Nicholas A. (Bonesy) Grano and Antonio Grano.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects to the Grano family Sunday, December 17 from 2-5 p.m. at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Blvd., Wethersfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, December 18 at 11 a.m. in St. Augustine Church, 10 Campfield Ave., Hartford. Attendees are asked to go directly to the church. Interment with military honors will follow the Mass in Cedar Hill Cemetery (Section 12), Hartford. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Red Cross, 209 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06032. For on-line expressions of sympathy, please visit www.desopofuneralchapel.com.