Ret. Chief of Police Benny D. Rotundo,UPD

Retired Chief of Police Benny D. Rotundo, UPD, age 79, of Frankfort, passed away on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at the Albany Medical Center with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Utica on July 22, 1931, Benny was the son of the late Peter, Sr. and Jennie (Dietz) Rotundo. A veteran of the United States Army, he proudly served his country during active duty in the European Theater of Operations. He also served honorably and with much pride for 20 years at the Elihu Root U.S. Army Reserve Center in Utica as a member of the 331st General Hospital unit. At one time he was married to the former Marie Susso who has since passed away. On September 16, 1983 he married the former Rita-Ann Cucharale and through their love they knew much happiness because they were the best of friends and the love of each other’s lives. Benny joined the Utica Police Department at a young age. He was promoted to Chief in 1970 and oversaw the department with respected leadership for over 31 years. This was his passion and he bestows a legacy of old school philosophy and professional mannerisms to this greater Utica area, retiring in 2001 after 46 years of service. It will be remembered that he loved his country, family, and community with much dignity and honor. He was appointed to numerous New York State Chief of Police Associations and committees of which he dutifully shared his knowledge and commitment. An enthusiastic equestrian, he earned himself the epithet of the “Last American cowboy”. He was a communicant of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Benny is survived by his cherished wife, Rita; his children and their families, Jennifer L. and Ray Curtis of Newport, Peter J. Rotundo of Frankfort and Pamela Rotundo of Clark Mills, Benny Jr. and Kelly J. Rotundo of Frankfort, twins Lorraine Rotundo of Newport and Lenore Rotundo of Frankfort, and Salvatore “Cy” and Anita L. Rotundo of Frankfort; his grandchildren, Crystal, Megan, Peter, Benny III, Mathew, Salvatore, and Nicole; and his great-grandchildren, Dominick, Ella, Grace, James, and Marianna; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law with whom he truly enjoyed sharing his life, Rocco and Lena Cuchiarale. Survivors also include brother, Joseph Convertino of Utica; his cousins; and several aunts. He was blessed to have the camaraderie and friendship of many of the men and women who served under his leadership and have story upon story of memorable times; and his loyal childhood friends, Nick LaBella, as well as Robert Simeski. He was predeceased by his brother, Peter Rotundo, Jr.; sister, Frances M. Convertino; and sister-in-law, Victoria Convertino. Rita and her family wish to thank the entire staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their many years of care and professional guidance; his trusted physicians, Dr. Ramzi Nassif and Dr. Francis Constantine who shared a great concern and friendship with Benny; the Albany Medical Center staff for their outstanding compassion and affectionate care; and the Utica Police Department and Fr. Joe Salerno for their respect and kindness during these difficult and sad days. Benny’s family will honor his life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Benny’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday at 12:00 noon at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes with Police and Military Honors conferred. The Rev. Joseph Salerno, Chaplain of the Utica Police Department will officiate. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Mass. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the family to establish a scholarship fund for local criminal justice students; envelopes will be available at the service. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Ret. Chief of Police Benny D. Rotundo,UPD

July 22, 1931 - October 14, 2010