Senate Resolution No. 198

BY: Senator KENNEDY

MOURNING the death of Joseph F. Crangle,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his
community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Joseph F. Crangle was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with great sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Joseph F. Crangle, noting the
significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Joseph F. Crangle, a true pillar in his community of
Buffalo, New York, died on Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at the age of 88;
and

WHEREAS, The son of Irish immigrants, Joseph F. Crangle was a member
of the first graduating class of Bishop Timon High School where he was
elected diocesan and national president of the Catholic Youth Council
before moving on to Canisius College; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, Joseph F. Crangle proudly served his country
as a member of the United States Army where he rose to the esteemed rank
of captain during a career in the Reserves which stretched from 1955 to
1965; and

WHEREAS, Joseph F. Crangle got his first taste of politics in
college while successfully running for president of the Student Council;
after graduating from Canisius in 1955, he went on to earn a law degree
from SUNY Buffalo Law School in 1959; and

WHEREAS, A Buffalo native and noted attorney, Joseph F. Crangle
towered over the local scene as an Erie County chairman from 1965 to
1988, longer than anyone before or after him; additionally, he served as
state chairman from 1971 to 1974; and

WHEREAS, A renowned figure amongst his peers, Joseph F. Crangle
enjoyed relationships with many prominent national politicians, and was
a member of the National Committee for two decades; he also served as a
senior aide to three state Assembly speakers; and

WHEREAS, This inspiring man did not stop there, Joseph F. Crangle
served as chairman of the Erie County Water Authority from 1987 until
1996, and was counsel for the Seneca Nation of Indians for many years;
he was later known as an election analyst on WIVB-TV; and

WHEREAS, Predeceased by his wife Rita, Joseph F. Crangle is survived
by four daughters, Mary, Katie, Brigid and Betsy; one son, Joseph; and
nine grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Joseph F. Crangle leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Joseph F. Crangle, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of his community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Joseph F. Crangle.