Jim Granchelli

Born in Lockport, New York, it was the warmth of the Texas Tropical Trail Region that enticed Jim Granchelli, his wife, and their seven children to migrate to McAllen in the late 1990s, not knowing anyone. Beginning his Texas career by supplying firewood to the local barbeque restaurants, Granchelli built on the construction industry and real estate development experience he brought from New York.

“I then also started a Cantera stone business since I was a pretty good brick layer and stone setter,” Granchelli explained. “I built stone and Cantera columns until I became an estimator and eventually worked for D. Wilson Construction for nine years.”

From there, Granchelli went out on his own, starting Granchelli Construction, LLC 10 years ago.

“We build commercial and industrial only, no residential, except apartments,” he said. “Our goal is always to deliver quality and finish on time and on budget. We have no fancy sales pitch. We just do what we say we’re going to do and that sells itself.”

That has worked superbly, for Granchelli Construction’s work is all across the Valley. The company built the Auto Mall for Bud Payne and Rio Chevrolet in Rio Grande City for Billy Canales, Rio Grande Regional Hospital, Bentsen Tower, work for the government, and churches, warehouses, retail and much more.

Granchelli is proud of the work his company does but sitting in his office surrounded by photos of his wife and children, he spoke of how he’s proudest of them. “They grew up way too fast,” he said. “It’s terrible how fast they grow up.”

Contented that at least wife, Julie, works with him, his employees usually numbering nine but at times balloons up to 50 or 60 with subcontractors, Granchelli is a quiet, happy man. He’s most grateful for his family and the friendships he has made over the last 20 years.

“I love what I do. It’s what I’ve done my whole life.”