James Cranz Ii

February 2, 1942 - August 19, 2014, a former Marine and President of his family's business, died on Tuesday, August 19, 2014 in Buffalo, NY, after a long illness. He was 72. Born in Buffalo, he was a graduate of the Nichols School where he was a three sport athlete competing in football (Captain), hockey, and baseball. After his senior year, he was selected and played in the County vs. City High School All-Star Football Game held at War Memorial Stadium and then attended Trinity University in San Antonio, TX. Following Trinity University, Jim joined the Marine Corps and served at Guantanamo Bay during the Bay of Pigs Invasion and thereafter served at the American Embassy in Germany. Upon completion of his Marine duty, he returned to Buffalo and worked for the National Cash Register Company and was selected "Man of the Year" by the Junior Chamber of Commerce. Jim then joined his family's business, J.M. Cranz Co. and served as its Vice President and President before retirement. He is survived by his son, Kevin W. Cranz of Charlotte, NC and his daughter, Lindsay C. Esposito of Poughkeepsie, NY, as well as three grandchildren, Michael Cranz, Parker Cranz, and Ethan Esposito. Funeral Services will be conducted at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Bath National Cemetery, in Bath NY at a later date.