Mr. Francis A. "Frank" Rocco, Jr.

UTICA – Mr. Francis A. “Frank” Rocco, Jr. passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 5, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of his home. He was 58 years old. His passing leaves a deep sadness in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Born in Turkey on August 7, 1967, while his father was serving in the U.S. Air Force, Francis was the son of the late Francis A. “Frank” Sr. and Cheryl (Scofield) Rocco. Upon the family’s return stateside, he was raised in Utica, graduating from T.R. Proctor High School with the Class of 1986. After high school, he proudly served his country for four years in the United States Army, spending the majority of that time stationed in Germany. Frank wed the love of his life, the former Karen Elizabeth Frezza, on October 14, 1995. The couple shared over 28 years together prior to her passing on March 3, 2024. Prior to his military service, Frank held a managerial position at McDonald’s on Mohawk Street. Later, he held employment at the Walmart Distribution Center as an asset protector. He then joined the team at Hapanowicz Brothers Meat Market doing a little bit of everything. Frank was a kindhearted and compassionate soul, quiet and reserved — unless you rubbed him the wrong way. His nieces and nephews hold cherished memories of Uncle Frank, who created special moments with them and loved them as his own. In his spare time, he was an avid bowler and enjoyed golf — even though he jokingly referred to himself as “a duffer.” Frank loved the Lord and lived his faith quietly. Frank is survived by his siblings and their loves, Lynn and James Ludden, Laurie Rocco, Patrick Rocco and Colleen Metz, and Thomas and Michele Rocco; nieces and nephews, Michael Sweezey and his fiancée Megan, Amanda Sweezey and her fiancé John Slawson; Paul Bulgar, Ryan Bulgar; Rosaleigh Ludden and her fiancé Nick Wood, Antonia Ludden, Kimberly Ludden; Christina Rocco, Cody Guerra and Jason Leonard, Courtney and Ryan Perez, Camille Guerra, Curstin and Jaclyn Guerra; Anthony Rocco, Nicholas Rocco; Bryan and Elizabeth Rocco, Brandon and Randi Rocco, Brianna Rocco, Avery; Kaylea and Loren Sludder, Meghan and Luke Presley; and David Frezza; great-nieces, great-nephews; Aunt Ann; cousins, Heidi and Rodney Brewer and their family, and Shaun and Theresa Story, whom he adored. He will additionally be remembered by his in-laws, David and Mimi Frezza; and missed by his feline companion, Ginger. Frank was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, David and Sharon (Story) Frezza; and brother-in-law, Robert J. Frezza. In honoring Francis’ wishes, there will be no public services. His family will celebrate his life privately. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Francis A. "Frank" Rocco, Jr.

August 7, 1967 - December 5, 2025