Mr. Rocco L. Carzo

Mr. Rocco L. Carzo, age 87, passed away unexpectedly into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, October 28, 2014 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on November 20, 1926, Rocco was the son of the late Frank and Anna (Aurigema) Carzo; and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. A veteran of World War II, he honorably served his country in the United States Army as a Medical Technician stationed in the Philippines where he attended to injured soldiers. On June 17, 1950 he married the former Lena Dispirito. During their 64 years together so much of their love was the source and stimulus of each other’s wellbeing and happiness. Rocco worked in his vocation as a Machinist at the Chicago Pneumatic Tool Company where he was promoted to the position of foreman. During those working years, he made many wonderful friendships and durable alliances that were honored and maintained over time. Through his friendship with Tommy Maugeri, he found his “second home” at Maugeri’s Auto Repair. He assisted them in any capacity needed and he loved being with ‘the boys’. Rocco was a man of integrity in the workforce and on the home front. He was charming, sincere, honest, and most of all --- loving. He prided himself in being a premier patriarch for his family, and he instilled in them the importance of having respect for everyone, assuming responsibility in all their commitments, and upholding their cultural traditions and heritage. Being a father was a blessing that Roc was so privileged to have and for which his children held him in such admiration. His greatest success in life was having wonderful children who he loved and was loved by. Roc was a man’s man, a loyal friend, and a fellow who will never be forgotten. His Italian ancestry was an integral ingredient of his happiness. He enjoyed drinking homemade wine and making sausage in the oil with his brothers and sister. Roc was a master carpenter, and along with his brothers, he built the home that he lived in. His handcrafted treasures were bestowed to family and friends – cradles, rocking horses, backhoes, cabinets, frames – whatever they needed, he made it. The woodshop in his basement was beloved by him, and when his children and grandchildren came along he taught them to be precise, patient, and productive in the craft, lessons which built a bond between them. Roc shared in a very close and loving relationship with his brothers and sister. He and his brothers made it a ritual to have lunch together every Tuesday, they shared in the sportsmanship of bowling for many years, and met at the Italian Heritage Club (former Sons of Italy) to partake in the game of Bocce…these were the special things that kept these brothers so close. He was a member of the VFW Whitestown Post #7393 and the Fort Schuyler Post #1290. A man of Catholic faith, Roc was a communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where he served as an usher and remained in good standing at his parish for many years, extending good will and hospitality to the congregation, and attended and supported the annual festivals. Rocco is survived by his wife and soul mate, Lena; his children and their spouses, Sharon and Jim Corrente of Queens, NY, Florence “Florie” and William C. Jones of Barneveld, NY, twins John Carzo and David Carzo both of Mohawk, NY, Rocco and Helen Carzo of Utica, NY; his grandchildren, Kara and Joe Bisceglie, James Corrente, Kristen Corrente; Tammy and Joe Butera, Ryan and Whitney Passante, Peter Passante, Matthew Passante; Rocco Carzo, and Alexis Carzo and his great-grandchildren, James Corrente; Cristian Butera, Joseph Butera; and Abri Passante. He will also be remembered by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Carmen and Phyllis Carzo, Anthony and Carol Carzo, Frank “Cic” and Josie Carzo, George and Cindy Carzo, his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Joseph Guzzetta; his in-laws Marie Carzo, Frank Dispirito, Anthony “Jay” and Barbara Dispirito, and Shirley Dispirito, his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He will long be remembered by the many people who held him in friendship and respect. He was predeceased by his brother, Joseph Carzo; his in-laws, Mena Carzo; Tina Moody, Sam and Elizabeth Dispirito, Florence Dispirito, and Kay and John O’Dell; and his longtime friend, Louie Rabbia. The family extends sincere appreciation to Roc’s neighbors, Benny and Kelly Rotundo, for their great support and many kindnesses rendered to Roc and his family over the years. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Rocco’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski. Interment will take place graveside in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Rocco L. Carzo

November 20, 1926 - October 28, 2014