Peter Rocca

Peter P. Rocca, age 90, of Russell, NY, passed away September 11, 2019, in Florida where he had been residing recently.

Peter was born in Pyrites, NY on October 28, 1928, the son of Patsy and Clara Rocca. Peter was a graduate of Canton Central School and attended Clarkson College. He started working at Clifton Mines where he met the love of his life, Marie Barry. After their marriage on February 17th, 1951, Peter worked for a short time in a mine near Herkimer, NY but later returned to the area and worked for International Talc Company until the company was sold in 1974. After that Peter worked on many construction projects around the North Country as an inspector and ended his career with employment with the Army Corps of Engineers during the major expansion at Fort Drum, NY.

Both Peter and Marie enjoyed camping, playing cards with friends and annual fall trips to Maine and winter trips to Florida for family visits.

For the past few months Peter had been residing with his son, Stephen, and daughter-in-law, Dana, in Mount Dora, Florida. During this time Peter got to visit with many members of his extended family that live in the area.

Peter was a past member of the Russell Volunteer Fire Department and a retired member of the S & B Hunting Club.

He is survived by three children, Susan (Liston) Willard, Hermon, NY; Stephen Rocca (Dana), Mount Dora, Florida; and Deborah (Tom) Bailey, Milton, Florida; six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, plus many nieces, nephews and their families.

Peter was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Guy, Frank and William; and his sisters, Rose, Jennie and Mary. Marie Rocca, his wife of 61 years passed away on June 5, 2012.

Memorial Contributions may be made to The Salvation Army Orlando, 416 West Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32804 or to the Russell Memorial Hall/Museum, 4 Pestle Street, Russell, NY 13684.

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend a graveside service on Friday, October 11th at 4:00 pm at the South Russell Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.

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