Gilbert A. Rocco, Sr.

Gilbert A. Rocco, Sr.

Gilbert A. Rocco, Sr., age 94, of Erie, died Sunday March 31, 2013 at UPMC Hamot after a brief illness. A lifelong resident of Erie, he was born May 10, 1918 in Erie, a son of the late Joseph and Susan DeFonzo Rocco.

Gilbert served in the United States Army during World War II with the 69th Infantry Division. In April of 1945 his unit made first contact with the Russians at the Elbe River.

He had worked at Marx Toys, Quality Market and was the owner and operator Rocco's Tavern.

He was a musician and member of the Musician's Union, an avid stamp collector, and Cleveland Indians fan.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Susan L. Sala Rocco.

He is survived by his four sons, David A. Rocco (Deborah), Gil Rocco, Jr., Joseph N. Rocco (Lisa) all of Erie and Nicola Rocco of Los Angeles, CA; one brother, Eugene Rocco, one sister, Virginia Masello; one granddaughter, Celia Rocco all of Erie. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren, Joey, Justice, and Avianna and many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to call at the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, on Thursday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. and may attend a Funeral Service on Friday at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery Chapel, 5711 West Lake Road, at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.