Obituary of Vel Ann Granchelli

Vel A. Patrick Granchelli, lovingly known as Grandma “Chelli”, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 27, 2022, at the age of 88 years old. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and pillar of the community.

Vel was born in Carleton, Ontario (Canada); the daughter of George Fredrick Patrick and Viola Burroughs Bradley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Elmer A. Granchelli and her siblings: Barbara Eleanor Patrick Sager, Kenneth Patrick, Betty Elizabeth Patrick Conley, Robert George Patrick, Howard Patrick, William Patrick.

She is survived by her son, James J. Granchelli, and his wife Julie, daughter, Renee A. Granchelli, and daughter, Lisa M. Price, and her husband, Frank. Vel was blessed with 12 grandchildren, Summer Price Lamborn, Paige Price Thompson, Frank Price II, ReAnne Granchelli Daylamani, Jaime Granchelli Darling, Joseph Granchelli, Patrick Granchelli, Victoria Granchelli, Michaela Granchelli Marcos, James (JJ) Granchelli, Adrienne Wolff, Constance Granchelli, followed by eight beautiful great-grandchildren. 

Vel got her start working as an instructor for Arthur Murray dance studios. After her marriage to husband Elmer Granchelli in 1956, her professional focus shifted to Real Estate.  Vel was a real estate broker for over forty years and had a passion for serving and growing the Lockport community.  Vel and her husband Elmer established several real estate development companies including, E.A. Granchelli Developer, Velco, Inc., and Centennial Development, Ltd.  These companies remain steadfast and continue to serve the Lockport area. 

Vel had a deep appreciation for the arts which served as a central theme throughout her entire life. She was an accomplished painter who received recognition and awards all across the Greater Niagara County region. Vel would treat her paintings as special gifts for her family, friends, and husband who treasured them deeply.

Vel was an advocate for the community and served as a member of several local service organizations. She was especially proud of her involvement with the Zonta Club of Lockport, focusing on the progression of women in business. She had a significant impact on Special Olympics fund-raising, as well as The Cantalician Center for Learning.   Vel and Elmer were generous with numerous local organizations and fundraising needs, as well as the timely transfer of the Palace Theatre that has become a Lockport historical landmark and thriving venue for the performing arts.

Vel will be remembered most for the joy that she brought to all those who had the pleasure of her company.  She was fun-loving, happy, genuine, brought a smile to every room and always came prepared to tell a joke. Vel believed that life was for living. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, skiing, shopping, dancing, and traveling. The greatest joy of Vel’s life was the love that she shared with her husband, Elmer, of 65 years. Vel and Elmer built their lives around home, family, and service to the Lockport Community. After a short time apart, they are now united as one with the Lord in their final resting place.

Relatives and friends may call Friday March 4th, 2022, 3:00pm-7:00pm at Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee Street, Lockport, New York 14094.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday March 5th, 2022 at 11:00am at All Saints Roman Catholic Church, 76 Church Street, Lockport NY 14094.  Entombment will be in Glenwood Mausoleum.  Reception to immediately follow at the Lockport Town & Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vel’s Children Art Scholarship Fund, Checks payable to: Niagara Arts & Cultural Center (THENACC), 1201 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls NY 14301.  Visit www.pruddenandkandt.com