GRANTON, James Joseph

January 19, 1960 – December 25, 2020

Born in Brockville, Ontario, James spent his childhood wandering the colorful valley of the St Lawrence river with his family and friends exploring the rich history of the region, spending many a day in the creeks and woods lining the riverbanks. Upon graduation James would spend time in Kingston pursuing further academic studies. Seeking new opportunities, James moved westward, eventually finding himself in southern Alberta working as a geological surveyor, establishing a small consulting enterprise, and later settling in Calgary. During this time, James would meet his wife, Carolyn. The two would share their first child, Nicholas, in 1992 and after marrying in 1994, a second boy, Brian, would follow swiftly in 1995. A man devoted to his family, James could almost always be found at the local rink or ball diamond cheering on whichever boy had a game that day. Retiring in 2017 from a long career contributing to Canada’s resources industry, James enjoyed his new found freedom by spending time outdoors, hiking, boating and living anew, he especially adored spending time with his granddaughter. James had a burning passion for many facets of life. He held a deep respect for art, particularly that of the first nations peoples and water-colour painting techniques, and for philosophy and hearty debate. James was never one to shy from candid conversation or offering principled advice, a trait for which he would be both cherished and admonished.

James is survived by his wife of 26 years, Carolyn, his boys, Nick and Brian, and his beloved granddaughter, Addison. Predeceased by his father, Brian Granton and his stepfather Gord McElroy, James is also survived by his Mother; Marina McElroy, and siblings; Charles, Theresa, Marilyn, and Gordon as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

As an expression of sympathy or in lieu of flowers his family has asked that a donation be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada or Diabetes Canada.

A Photo Tribute of James’s Life has been prepared by the family. Please contact the family for access to that.

Arrangements entrusted to Flo Simpson, Funeral Director

Cochrane Country Funeral Home – Ph: 403-932-1039

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  1. On January 11, 2021 at 7:26 pm Cynthia,Curtis, Kayla Bandola Said:

    Our deepest sympathies to you and your family Carolyn. While I did not have the opportunity to yet met James, your eloquent words of love, admiration, and characteristics of James makes me know I missed out. I hope you find comfort in the memories of your beautiful life together. Thinking of you at this time. ❤

  2. On January 11, 2021 at 7:29 pm Trevor blake Said:

    Was an honour to know James !! Him and carol did an amazing job raising two smart, strong, and big hearted boys who will do great things in their life. The many great memories and stories with James will always live on and be a part of everyone who knew him! A great man gone too soon xoxo

  3. On January 11, 2021 at 8:12 pm Carole Ann Said:

    Words no matter how kind cannot mend your heartache. Those who care for you wish you comfort and peace. Cherish your memories that you and James have created with your sons and granddaughter. I am so sorry for your loss.

  4. On January 11, 2021 at 9:16 pm Joann Said:

    Oh my friend, I cannot express my deepest sorrow for your loss. James has been such a huge part of your life for so long. My heart aches for you, Nick and Brian.
    Stay strong! Stay well!
    I love you!

  5. On January 11, 2021 at 9:40 pm Bev Svendsen Said:

    My sincere condolences.

  6. On January 11, 2021 at 9:41 pm Pete Paulson Said:

    Will Miss James, and his debates, He was a good friend and good Family man, taken way to soon,Sorry for your loss

  7. On January 11, 2021 at 10:01 pm Arlene Marcellus Said:

    Sharing in your sadness as you remember James. Husband, father,grandfather and friend. He will forever be a part of you.

  8. On January 12, 2021 at 6:53 am Gail Luck Said:

    Sending hugs to you, Nicholas & Brian. Please know that your friends love you, and are here for you.

  9. On January 12, 2021 at 9:14 am June Said:

    So sorry for your loss, Carol. Thinking of you and your family at this sad time.

  10. On January 12, 2021 at 9:52 am Joe Ovington Said:

    My deepest condolences Carol we have never met but James and go back to our high school days. I was very fortunate to get together with James almost every day when he was down at Thanksgiving as his mom living just down the street. We had a lot of laughs and shared so many memories. I count myself lucky to have known him as a friend he was an intelligent and had a great sense of humour. He talked about you and his kids and was SO proud of them and loved his family. I hope that his memory is able to keep you and your family strong and supportive of each other. Stay safe and healthy and again my prayers and thoughts are with you.

  11. On January 12, 2021 at 10:11 am Jane Spence Said:

    My sincerity is with you and your family so sorry for your loss Carolyn.

  12. On January 12, 2021 at 6:57 pm Olivia M.A, Higgs Said:

    Carol, Nicholas & Brian.
    My deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband and father.
    Carol, you were a teen the last time I saw you. As part of your extended family, I’m sad I didn’t met James. Cherish good memories!
    Your second cousin, Olivia Higgs (formally Rosychuk)

  13. On January 13, 2021 at 11:36 am Pamela Bangma Said:

    James was unique and special guy. I will miss his clever conversation and honest contribution. He will be surely missed. Sincere condolences to his truly loved his family. RIP James.

  14. On January 14, 2021 at 2:24 pm Kennedy and Randy Said:

    Carol, Nick, Brian,

    Sending you the biggest of hugs!! We love you all so much. Both Randy and I are honoured to have known James and be included in the family. Can’t wait until we can all be together again. XOXO

  15. On January 14, 2021 at 4:35 pm Corinne (Cory) Linder Said:

    Dear Carol, I was shocked & deeply saddened to read your Facebook page today. I’ve had trouble accessing Facebook for the past several months (long story)…so I only ‘accidentally’ am connected to it…about once per month. Therefore it was very fortunate that I even saw your Page. My heart truly goes out to you & all your family members. I enjoyed any time spent with you, Nick, Brian, & James. You & James raised 2 wonderful young men. May the many memories that all of you shared together…bring you some comfort in the days ahead. Your granddaughter Addison will continue to be a ray of sunshine & hopeful optimism…during this sorrowful time. Again…truly sorry to hear this unexpected news. Take good care, & know you’re in my thoughts & prayers. God Bless. Love, Corinne (Cory)

  16. On January 14, 2021 at 11:32 pm Tracy Cameron Said:

    Carol, Nick, and Brian. I am so sorry for your loss. I am in shock that James is just gone. James was my big brother and I loved him very much. I will miss our conversations and debates. I will miss the chuckles I would have at his expense as he always wanted to win. He was a wonderful uncle to my children and started their first piggy banks. He always had my back when I needed him and much wisdom to share. He would call me now and then just to check in or to tell me something he wanted to share. I will truly miss him.

  17. On January 28, 2021 at 7:50 pm Brenda Glazer Said:

    Dear Carolyn–

    My deepest condolences to you and your boys. Such an unimaginable tragedy for you all. I’m sending you virtual hugs until I can give you a real one when I see you again in the shop.