Gene Rocco

Gene Rocco

Gene Rocco, age 94, of Erie, died peacefully at his home on June 1, 2014 surrounded by family and caregivers. Gene was born in Erie on May 17, 1920, a son of the late Joseph and Susan (DiFonzo) Rocco.

Gene was a graduate of Strong Vincent High School where he excelled in track events. He served in the United States Army during World War II stationed at Fort Bragg, NC where he was administrative NCO. While in the service he married his sweetheart, Annette Iacovetta at St. Paul's Church, and was honorably discharged in 1945.

Gene worked at Louis Marx Toys Company as a plant manager until its closing. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul's Church where he sang in the choir for over 50 years as their lead tenor. One of his favorite past times was singing and harmonizing songs with family and friends. He enjoyed those special times with his family, and times with his grandchildren were priceless. He looked forward to his annual bocce picnics with his extended family and friends at his home.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother Gilbert Rocco, brothers-in-law Al and Joseph Iacovetta, and granddaughters, Jennifer and Alycia Campany.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Annette Iacovetta Rocco; sister Virginia Massello; daughters Carolyn Vendetti, husband Richard of Erie, Suzanne Campany, husband Andrew of Valencia, CA; granddaughter Julie Vendetti Hoffman, husband Cory; grandson Anthony Vendetti wife Jess; and two great grandchildren, Santino and Vera Marie Vendetti, as well as many nieces and nephews. Also many thanks to his caregivers Patty, Lisa, Tom, Nancy, Tori, Nicole and Beth from Heartland Hospice who provided for his care.

Friends are invited to call at the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, on Friday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. and may attend a service there on Saturday at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Paul's Church, 1617 Walnut Street, at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice, 719 Indiana Dr., Erie, PA 16505.