ROCCHIO, Domenico Rocchio

Born in 1938 in Gallo, Italy, Domenico was the light of Angela and Francesco Rocchio’s lives. In Gallo he was known as il Nipotino, a product of generations of great men and women – mayors, landowners and cultivators. He was a treasure, modest and wise with the work ethic of an oxen and the kindness of a lamb.

In 1968, Domenico and his beloved wife Rosa immigrated to Canada with their three young children where a new life was carved out of hard work, diligence, perseverance, and lots of fun and laughter! A surprise package arrived in 1975 that added joy to the family, making his dream of having a large family come true with Angela, Frank, Maria, and Patti.

While Domenico rose with the sun and his days were marked by hard work, spending over 30 years working at PPG, he also loved to have fun. Many days over the years were spent with family and friends, travelling, singing and dancing to Italian music, playing card games with his children, grandchildren and in-laws, going to the Italian Club with his friends, discussing politics, serving as a Knight of Columbus, and organizing the St. Antonio dance for over 20 years.

He touched so many lives with both a sense of humour and a sense of making people feel welcome and at ease, opening his home to his nieces, nephews, friends, and family.

Domenico’s grandchildren, Jonathan, Kristen, Marissa, Domenico, Tommy, Kayla, Olivia, and Michael and great-grandchildren, Cecelia, Joey, Adeline, Angelina, Violetta, and Joshua, were his reward, and ultimate joy. To them he was Nonno Dom! He taught them to listen, to find beauty in others, love of the simple things, and the meaning of generosity of spirit.

To his wife, Rosa, he was her rock: constant, guiding and bright. Their love started when they were children in Gallo and continues today, unabated. Together they built a life in Canada, a house and home where their children always felt safe and loved.

For his children, who were, along with his wife, the loves of his life, he was their Superstar. He was Papa, Daddy, Pa, their Father – their hero.

Visitation will be held at the OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West, on Thursday September 11th from 4 – 8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. MARY OF THE PEOPLE PARISH, 570 Marion Ave., Oshawa, on Friday September 12th, at 11 a.m. Entombment Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial donations to the CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) would be appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.oshawafuneralhome.com