Mariano “Jasper” Grant

WATERTOWN, NY  —  Mariano “Jasper” Grant, 89, of Watertown, NY, passed away peacefully on Sept. 15, 2025, at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters.

Jasper was born on Aug. 21, 1936, in Watertown, the son of the late Nicholas and Sarah (DeCarlo) Grant. He graduated in 1954 from Watertown High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army, enlisting on Nov. 29, 1956. He was stationed in Hawaii and was honorably discharged on Nov. 21, 1958.

Jasper began his career as an electrician and went on to become a successful self-employed general contractor in Watertown for many years. The “Amazing Jasper” could build anything!

He married Karen Tufo, on Aug. 22, 1998, at Benny’s Steakhouse in Watertown. Together, they made their home in Watertown, where they also owned and operated Karen and Jasper’s Bistro, a beloved local spot. Jasper had a passion for cooking and was famous for always making “enough for an army.”

Jasper had a deep love for his family, friends and especially all his “coffee buddies” whom he never missed an opportunity to show affection with a warm hug or an “I love you”.  He was a man of many talents who enjoyed singing, karaoke, golfing, boating, playing Watertown Red & Black football, and spending time with those closest to him.

Jasper was a devoted member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, a member of the Italian-American Club, a former member of the Watertown Elks Lodge, Ives Hill Country Club and Watertown Golf Club.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Grant; six daughters and their spouses: Kathy and Dwight Goutremont of Three Mile Bay, Kim and Kent Roberson of Tampa, FL, Karen and Tom Ruggieri of Liverpool, NY, Kris Evans and Mike Gilligan of Three Mile Bay, Karol and Mike Dunn of Dexter, NY, and Kelly and Bill Russell of Brownville, NY; 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and his sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Art Williams.

In addition to his parents, Jasper was predeceased by his siblings, Greg, Paul, Vincent, Rosemary, and Josephine.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home. Calling hours will be held 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, at the funeral home.

 A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m, Monday, Sept. 22, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Watertown. Burial with military honors will follow at Glenwood Cemetery.

Donations in Jasper’s memory may be made to the Town of Watertown Ambulance and Fire Department.

Online condolences may be shared at www.hartandbrucefh.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.