Alfred J. Rocci

Mr. Alfred J. Rocci, age 84, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 11, 2008 in the comfort of his home. Born in Utica on October 14, 1923, Alfred was the son of the late Peter and Madelina (Sgambata) Rocci. Raised and educated locally, he was a 1941 graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. He continued his collegiate studies at Oswego State Teacher’s College, and earned his Master’s Degree from Temple University. On September 2, 1950 he was joined in the sacrament of marriage to the former Orietta M. “Orrie” Ciacci with whom he shared 57 blessed years. Alfred’s teaching career began in Pennsylvania, prior to relocating back to Utica, where he accepted a position with the Utica City School District as a Driver Education instructor at Utica Free Academy. The highlight of his academic achievements was his appointment as Assistant Principal at T. R. Proctor High School. He loved his role as educator, coach, and will be remembered for his fairness and concern for his students, and his intuitive mentoring abilities. He retired in 1983, and he was humbly touched by those students who recalled his precious time in education. Gregarious in nature and steadfast in friendship, he truly believed in the precept that he had “brothers who were his best friends, and friends who were like brothers”. A sportsman at heart, he was an avid golfer, and at one time enjoyed bowling. His civic affiliations included the Knights of St. John, Commandery #385 and he was a communicant of St. Anthony of Padua Church. Alfred is survived by his wife, Orrie; his children and their spouses, Madelyne and Jay MacDonald of Florida, Alfred K. and Lisa Rocci of Utica, Natalie and Richard Kielar of Colorado, and Ana Burke of New York City; and his grandchildren, Austen MacDonald, Dr. Patrick Rossi; Marissa Rocci and fiancé David Armstrong , and Matthew Rocci; Michael Kielar and Britany Kielar; and Tyne Burke. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Mario and Marie Rocci of Utica; his nieces and nephews, Peter and Vinnie Rocci, James and Gloria Rocci, Mario and Donna Rocci, David and Marie Rocci, Steven & Carla Rocci; several great-nieces and great-nephews, Peter, Chuck and Gina; Nicole and Kathy; Marc; Philip and Elaine; Samantha and Savanna; cousins, and his in-laws residing in Italy. Alfred was also blessed with wonderful friends and neighbors. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Alphonse and Mary Rocci. The family extends gratitude to Dr. Fred L. Talarico, the members of the Utica Fire Department EMS, and the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Emergency Room staff, especially Dr. Timothy E. Page, for their professional and compassionate care. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The members of the Knights of St. John’s Commandery #385 will assemble at the funeral home at 7:30 for ritualistic services. Alfred’s funeral service will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony of Padua Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Alfred J. Rocci

October 14, 1923 - January 11, 2008