[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 73 (Monday, May 7, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2510-S2511]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING SAM GRANATO

  Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to a remarkable 
man who was a giant in our community and who had an immeasurable impact 
on the lives of many, many people. Sadly, Sam Granato passed away 
peacefully at his home after a 2-year battle with cancer. He fought his 
personal medical battle the same way he approached life: with grit, 
determination, and perseverance.
  Sam spent most of his life as a resident of Millcreek, UT, where he 
learned from his father, Frank, the value of

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hard work. Frank taught his son the elements of the food industry, 
imparting to Sam invaluable lessons that he would later implement as he 
established and operated several Italian delis and distributed food to 
Utah stores and restaurants. Lunch at Granato's was a mainstay for 
people from all walks of life. Some of the most interesting political 
discussions, for people on both sides of the aisle, have taken place in 
the ``boardrooms'' of Sam's beloved restaurant.
  To Sam, everyone was his best friend. Sam enthusiastically greeted 
every person who walked in the door of Granato's, whether he had known 
you for decades or had just met you. His mantra was always, ``How can I 
help you?'' Time after time, I watched Sam put his arm around someone, 
lean in, and offer a word of encouragement or help.
  Sam contributed to so many areas of Utah life. He was a successful 
businessowner, an effective Salt Lake councilman, an advocate for the 
needy, and a loving husband and father. He often brought people 
together--Mormon and Catholic, Republican and Democrat--and would 
bridge the gaps that confronted us. He represented a better era in 
politics in which we focused more on where we agree than where we 
disagree.
  With Sam's passing, Utah has lost an important member of its 
community. Sam was a man whose small stature belied his huge impact. 
Elaine and I extend our deepest sympathy and love to his wife, Ann, and 
to their four children. May our Heavenly Father's loving arms encircle 
them as they mourn his loss and celebrate his life. I will miss my 
friend and his kindness and support, but I know that the contributions 
he made will continue to bless our State for generations to come.

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