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Obituary of James T. Wrazen
James T. Wrazen, 78 years old of Buffalo, N.Y., passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 10, 2025.
James was born September 30, 1946 in Buffalo, N.Y., to Henry Wrazen and Florence Wrazen.
James (Jim) is survived by his sister Maryanne Backlas (Paul), his nieces Laurie and Karen, and his two beloved grand-nieces in Michigan; and many loving cousins in and around Buffalo, New York.
Jim attended the State University of New York, College at Buffalo, and received a Bachelor of Science in Education. Jim served in the Army National Guard before starting his career for the Erie County Department of Health, Environmental Health Services.
For years, Jim was a proud owner of his cherished horses. He held a New York State Owner’s license and Racing license for harness racing competitions. He was known to always be at the race track cheering on his horses and trainer (Randy) at Buffalo Raceway and Batavia Downs. He was known as a “super guy” who “got along great with everybody.”
Jim dedicated 20 years in his retirement to serving the South Buffalo community as a volunteer for the Meals on Wheels (MOW) organization. Hundreds of local supporters voted to recognize Jim as he was awarded 2nd place in a Nationwide Meals on Wheels “American Volunteer Contest.” It was the first time a local MOW volunteer received national recognition. He was known to be “dedicated to the cause and never took time off.” He “went above and beyond” to not only serve the meals but to check-in on the recipients and lend a helping hand. Those at the local Meals on Wheels hub (feedmorewny.org) said it this way - “He was loved by co-workers and clients; we were his family and he was ours.”
Jim enjoyed travelling out of state regularly to visit family in Michigan. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, co-workers, and the local community he tirelessly served.
There will be a future memorial service, with date and time to be determined. Donations can be made to Meals on Wheels at www.feedmorewny.org.
