Our beloved husband, father and papa has passed. James V. “Jim” Crain – 88 – of 7312 North Main St. Ext., Hornell, died unexpectedly Monday evening (May 8, 2017) at his home with his wife by his side, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on May 26, 1928, he was the son of Arthur & Marie (Schwartz) Crain.

Jim grew up in Canisteo and was a graduate of Canisteo Central School (class of 1946). He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving his country from 1946-1948 aboard Aircraft Carrier, USS Saipan. While serving in the Navy, Jim was fortunate to have traveled to many ports throughout the world.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Jim was employed for a time at the former Tuttle & Rockwell Store in Hornell as a “jack of all trades,” installing carpet & flooring, draperies and tile. While working at Tuttle & Rockwell, Jim met his future bride, Frances “Fran” Degaetano! Their first date was attending the Policeman’s Ball at the former Sherwood Hotel where Jim was somewhat overwhelmed to meet and sit with her entire family of eight brothers & sisters.

Jim was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Hornell American Legion and the G. Carducci Lodge (sons of Italy). He enjoyed woodworking and was a master craftsman.

As an avid hunter, Jim loved to hunt deer, rabbit, squirrel, turkey, duck & pheasant. He also loved “big game” hunting such as bear & elk. Some of his fondest memories were traveling to Montana & Colorado with his son and grandsons during elk hunting season. He has three bull elk to his credit.

Jim was a die-hard fisherman who, along with his father, was considered the top fishermen on Conesus Lake. He actually won 3rd place for the largest northern pike in New York State. He enjoyed fishing in Keuka Lake, Seneca Lake, Lake Erie and Oak Orchard (salmon fishing). Jim also loved to fish in rivers & streams for trout and also fly-fishing.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas Crain; two sisters, Evelyn Snyder and Eleanor Milne.

Jim was married on March 15, 1952 (65 years) to the LOVE OF HIS LIFE, the former Frances “Fran” Degaetano who survives. Also surviving are 2 daughters, Laura (Patrick Berry) Crain of Hornell and Kelly (Ray Reyome) Fisher of Prattsburg; 1 son, James “Jim” (Michelle) Crain of Milton, VT; 5 grandchildren, David Harwood JR of Hornell, Tara (Chris) Smith of Milton, VT, Jacob Fisher of New York City, Josh (Cynthia) Crain of Dundee and Scott Crain of Milton, VT; 5 great-grandchildren, Tessa Smith, Lincoln Smith, David Harwood III, Luke Harwood and Wyatt Crain; several nieces, nephews, cousins & in-laws.

At Jim’s request there will be no prior calling hours. Family & friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 2:00 PM at St. Ann’s Church.

Jim’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or have Masses celebrated in his name.  Click here to print a memorial form.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.