Mr. Rocco A. "Doc" Zito

Mr. Rocco A. “Doc” Zito, age 86, of North Utica, passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2010 in the comfort of his daughter’s home in Waterville with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on September 14, 1924, Rocco was the son of the late Antonio and Carmella (Romano) Zito. He was raised in Utica and attended local schools. A proud veteran of World War II, he honorably served his country in the United States Army 3rd Infantry Division. He was involved in the Italian and French campaigns from 1943-1945, and was among the army’s first unit that served in the amphibious landing in Anzio Beach Head. He was later wounded in southern France on his 19th birthday for which he received the Purple Heart honor. In 1947 he married the former Antoinette Bernardi who passed away in 1980. After the war years, Rocco was employed by Hathaway Bakeries as a route man. He was the first to distribute for FritoLay in the upstate New York area. He later worked at the Strategic Air Command (SAC) at Griffiss Air Force Base retiring in the late 1970’s. Rocco will be remembered for his creative and uniquely comical nature. He was also a generous spirit, always willing to be of help to family or anyone in need. One of his favorite profound quotes was “One old man can take care of four kids, but 4 kids can’t take care of one old man”, and he loved making the “rounds” to visit his children and grandchildren. He was an extraordinarily social man who earned the friendships of many, and it was true that he was a “man’s man”. In his early years, he enjoyed and was skilled at games of chance. He was a sports enthusiast and an amateur boxer during his service years, and he was a fan of Buffalo Bills football and New York Yankees baseball. Rocco is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Joseph A. and Sandra Zito of Marcy, D. Richard and Barbara Zito of Peoria, AZ, and David R. Zito of Utica; his daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Robert Verdon of Waterville; his grandchildren, Christine and Jim Gray, Noreen and Ron Beasock, Nicole and Chris Getz; Tricia and Stephen Zito, Robert and Analy Zito; Robert J. Verdon, and Marissa Verdon; and his great-grandchildren, Steven, Taylor, Ronnie, Joey, Carly, Danielle, and Anthony; twins Aubrey Marie and Zachary Rocco who were born 4 hours prior to their great-grandfather’s passing. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Frank and Karen Zito of Sun City West, AZ; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, including F. Eugene Romano, and Anthony Marchetta. The family is grateful to his primary physician, Dr. Oleg Dulkin, the Veterans Administration at the Syracuse and Rome facilities; Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially Joan, for their support and compassion which was of such comfort; and to Rocco’s daughter and her family, and his son David, who comprised a great care system to Doc in his later years and during his illness. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Those wishing to express an act of kindness may make a donation to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., for their sincere and heartfelt efforts; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Rocco’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday afternoon at 12:00 noon from the funeral home and at 1:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Anthony P. LaFache with Military Honors. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Rocco A. "Doc" Zito

September 14, 1924 - December 28, 2010