Rocco A. Ferranti, 75, died peacefully on October 5, 2023 after a courageous fight against Lewy Body Dementia. He is survived by his cherished and devoted wife of 49 years, Elizabeth; his daughter Kathryn; son William; daughter-in-law Amy; grandchildren Violet and Rocco; his sisters Roseann and Joanna and their families; and many treasured cousins, nieces, …
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Rocco A. Ferranti, 75, died peacefully on October 5, 2023 after a courageous fight against Lewy Body Dementia. He is survived by his cherished and devoted wife of 49 years, Elizabeth; his daughter Kathryn; son William; daughter-in-law Amy; grandchildren Violet and Rocco; his sisters Roseann and Joanna and their families; and many treasured cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends from all phases of life. We know he is delighted to be reunited with his parents who he missed very much, Will and Pauline, and his beloved coach, Jim Beaudry.
Born on November 24, 1947, Rocco had a happy, family-filled childhood in Brooklyn, NY, and grew up playing on the neighborhood basketball courts. That city kid then headed to rural Maine, where he played basketball for St. Francis College (now the University of New England), scoring his 1,000th career point on January 11, 1970. Rocco is the sole St. Francis player to have his number retired, and he was inducted into the UNE Hall of Fame in 2015.
After college, he returned to New York, where he worked as a physical education teacher and coach at Bishop Ford High School and married Betty. Katie and Will arrived soon thereafter, and he described their early childhood years as his favorite time of life. He subsequently lived in the Bronx, and then in Bergen and Monmouth Counties, NJ, working for Stella D’oro Biscuit Co., and as a high school basketball coach and referee. Rocco loved the outdoors, spending time with his family, his childhood summers in the country with his cousins, a cold beer, a silly joke, funny television and movies, a round of golf with friends, a swim in the ocean and Sunday sauce and meatballs. He was a gentle, kind, and generous man, a wonderful husband and the greatest of fathers. He will be deeply missed.
Rocco’s family wishes to thank the caregivers, nurses and hospice aides who have provided care and support over the past two years. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (lbda.org) are welcome. Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, October 8, 2023 from 3 to 7 pm at Holmdel Funeral Home in Holmdel, NJ and a Mass of Resurrection on Monday, October 9, 2023 at 10 am at The Parish of Saint Mary in Colts Neck, NJ.
Ellen Evanoff
left a message on October 17, 2023:
His sweet disposition and easy smile will always be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Roseann Keenan
left a message on October 16, 2023:
Rocky was a wonderful husband ,father and a person who truly loved his parents.
Bruce Dobkowski
left a message on October 13, 2023:
Rocco was a wonderful classmate and will be very missed by the Saint Francis College alumni of 1970. He was a pleasure to watch on the basketball court, and an endearing friend. My sincerest condolences at this time of loss. - Bruce Dobkowski, SFC 1970
RickForest
left a message on October 12, 2023:
My sorrow for Katie, Bettyand William is immense I still can’t fathom Rocco not being here. I’ve been thinking of him all day today, Thursday, October 12. I love you all. Please contact me if you need anything.
Peace&Love
Vinny Lussier
left a message on October 11, 2023:
Heartfelt condolences to Betty and the whole family. I was barely a teenager when my Dad rented the apartment at 284 Windsor Pl in Brooklyn to Rocco and Betty, two really nice folks. Nobody should have to suffer through Lewy Body dementia. Rocco & Betty were always so nice to me, and so was Shep! I look back smiling remembering when Shep broke out from the 3rd floor, and paid us a "visit" in the first floor kitchen.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Abbie Lyon
left a message on October 11, 2023:
Condolences to Rocco's family. It took great courage and perseverance to live with Lewy Body Dementia; I wish peace to Rocco and his family.
Anni Grillo
left a message on October 10, 2023:
Dear Kate, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. My deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss.
Phyllis Castoro
left a message on October 10, 2023:
Rocky we will miss your easy going, happy personality! You are at home with loving parents.
Jackie Fenton
left a message on October 9, 2023:
I am so very sorry for the Rocky’s passing and the difficult time these past few years have been navigating everything for him. I will always remember him for his humor and warm smile. He was always so inviting and I am so happy to have known him and that he was my Uncle. Much love to the Ferranti’s.
Larry Godbout
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Remember him from Saint Francis College
A great basketball player and a better person. Sorry for your loss.
Joseph T Glynn( Jose')
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Deepest condolences from Myself and the Glynn Family
Rocco was a great guy.
He will be missed.
Another old neighborhood legend is gone but not forgotten.
RIP Rocco
Diana Rocco
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Dear Betty,
I am so sorry to hear of Rocco’s passing. I had the pleasure of getting to know him as well as you and your family. My deepest sympathy to all of you🙏🏻 Diana Rocco
Jimmy and Roseanne Kay
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Our hearts go out to Rocky's family. Lots of memories of family get togethers,. I especially remember having Sunday dinner at Uncle Willie and Aunt Pauline's house. My husband Jimmy always looked forward to seeing him at family events.
A couple of friends of mine had him as a gym teacher at Bishop Ford. I ran into one of them the last time I was in Brooklyn, he asked about Mr Ferranti and said that he was a mentor to him and others. Mr. Ferranti made quite an impression .
To his Aunt Lena, he was and always will be her "good lookin nephew." Hopefully she's hugging him right now.
Roseann Keenan
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Rocky was a wonderful brother to me, and my sister Joanna and an uncle to my son Philip. My favorite memory is of them playing basketball in my yard and it took till Rocky was 40 for Phil to finally win a game .Also even though he was not quite himself , when I visited him at Alcouer I found it very comforting. We would always take a walk aroun the
block, talk about our parents and things we did as a family. I would always call our sister Joanna and she would talk with him, Which was good because I knew it was hard for her
being out of state and not being able to see him as
much as she would have liked. Rocky is now in heaven with mom and dad and they are thrilled that their Prince is with them again. Love you always Roseann
Sergio Galindo
left a message on October 9, 2023:
I'm so sorry. My condolences
Gerry Griffin
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Rock was one of the nicest person one could hope to meet. Still have the photo of him in my C.F. home. He absolutely owned every place he visited. Rest in Peace, Rock. I will never forget you.
Jim (larry) Law
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, Jim (larry) Law lit a candle
Mae and Vito Carbonaro
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Sorry to hear about cousin Rocco. Even though we did not see each other very often I always thought about you. Will never forget you.
Tom Reed
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, Tom Reed lit a candle
John and Pat Cigliano
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, John and Pat Cigliano lit a candle
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Joe amodio
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Very sorry for your loss . I had the pleasure of knowing Rocco at st Francis he lived across the hall and in our sophomore year we shared a house off campus with a couple other guys
He was an incredible guy , his humility and zest for life was contagious
May he rest in peace
Laure & Dennis Canese
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, Laure & Dennis Canese lit a candle
Laure & Dennis Canese
left a message on October 8, 2023:
There are no good byes. We will never forget you Rocky! We will always have the happy memories of family gatherings. Rest in Peace. With Prayers Laure & Dennis
John Cigliano
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Rocky will definitely be missed. We were always talking about golf and getting together to play a round. Unfortunately that never happened. But he will always be in my prayers especially on the first tee. Maybe he will improve my handicap.
He was my BEST man at my wedding 55 years ago and we will always be grateful for that.
I will miss all his jokes and comments.
FOREVER IN OUR PRAYERS
Johnny and Pat
Frank Brancato
left a message on October 7, 2023:
I am sorry that I didn’t know Mr. Ferranti; it seems that he was a great and noble family and school man.
Peace to his soul after his body suffered so long.
Peace to his family who suffered with him.
Sincerely,
Frank Brancato
Bishop Ford CCHS 1999–2012
NUNZIO & ROSALIND INNUCCI, SR
left a message on October 7, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, NUNZIO & ROSALIND INNUCCI, SR lit a candle
Nick Ricardo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
Great man.. Even better neighbor. He taught me how to golf, chipping in the yard all the time. Loved growing up on street and getting into mischief with his son Will.. Rocco was always there for us. Deepest condolences.
Jack Sheehan
left a message on October 7, 2023:
To Betty and the Family,
It's a sad day for all to have lost such a wonderful man. Rocco was the sweetest and gentlest guy I have ever known. His smile and giggle will stay with me for all times. I consider myself very fortunate to have had Rocco as a dear friend. Jack
Cindy and Michae lSauber
left a message on October 7, 2023:
A nice funny kind neighbor, Rocco will be missed .
Ralph & Joanne Figliuolo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
Our sincerest condolences to the family on the loss of Rocco. He will be missed by us and the Equestra community. We will always treasure our memories with Him at the golf outings and in the swimming pool.
Praying He now Rests in Peace with the perpetual light shining upon Him. 🙏💔
Alan Cafiero
left a message on October 7, 2023:
Will and family: my deepest condolences to your entire family. Rocco (Mr. Ferranti to us) was a great man and was so nice to myself and all of our friends around Maywood growing up. I have many fond memories of him chipping golf balls in the backyard and taking Will and I to Orchard Hills golf course in Paramus. He will be truly missed.
Dan Cupo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
He was an kind and gentle person knew him through pickel ball. He played really well switching hands when needed. He also possessed a great sense of humor. I and others enjoyed his company. My sincerest condolences to Rocco’s family. Too sad….
Wayne Fanciullo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
I send my condolences to you Elizabeth and family Rocco was a good man with a great sense of humor.
Pam Bobrow
left a message on October 6, 2023:
Sending my deepest love and condolences to you all.
Joanna Davidson
left a message on October 6, 2023:
I will truly miss you Rocky. You were a wonderful brother with a great sense of humor and a kind person. You will stay in my heart forever. Love your sister, Joanna
Shirley Aldebol
left a message on October 6, 2023:
I'm so sorry for your loss. I offer you my warmest sympathies and prayers during this difficult time.
Brian and Lisarae DHuyvetter
left a message on October 6, 2023:
Our condolences and prayers are with your entire family.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Ellen Evanoff
left a message on October 17, 2023:
His sweet disposition and easy smile will always be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Roseann Keenan
left a message on October 16, 2023:
Rocky was a wonderful husband ,father and a person who truly loved his parents.
Bruce Dobkowski
left a message on October 13, 2023:
Rocco was a wonderful classmate and will be very missed by the Saint Francis College alumni of 1970. He was a pleasure to watch on the basketball court, and an endearing friend. My sincerest condolences at this time of loss. - Bruce Dobkowski, SFC 1970
RickForest
left a message on October 12, 2023:
My sorrow for Katie, Bettyand William is immense I still can’t fathom Rocco not being here. I’ve been thinking of him all day today, Thursday, October 12. I love you all. Please contact me if you need anything.
Peace&Love
Vinny Lussier
left a message on October 11, 2023:
Heartfelt condolences to Betty and the whole family. I was barely a teenager when my Dad rented the apartment at 284 Windsor Pl in Brooklyn to Rocco and Betty, two really nice folks. Nobody should have to suffer through Lewy Body dementia. Rocco & Betty were always so nice to me, and so was Shep! I look back smiling remembering when Shep broke out from the 3rd floor, and paid us a "visit" in the first floor kitchen.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Abbie Lyon
left a message on October 11, 2023:
Condolences to Rocco's family. It took great courage and perseverance to live with Lewy Body Dementia; I wish peace to Rocco and his family.
Anni Grillo
left a message on October 10, 2023:
Dear Kate, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. My deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss.
Phyllis Castoro
left a message on October 10, 2023:
Rocky we will miss your easy going, happy personality! You are at home with loving parents.
Jackie Fenton
left a message on October 9, 2023:
I am so very sorry for the Rocky’s passing and the difficult time these past few years have been navigating everything for him. I will always remember him for his humor and warm smile. He was always so inviting and I am so happy to have known him and that he was my Uncle. Much love to the Ferranti’s.
Larry Godbout
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Remember him from Saint Francis College
A great basketball player and a better person. Sorry for your loss.
Joseph T Glynn( Jose')
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Deepest condolences from Myself and the Glynn Family
Rocco was a great guy.
He will be missed.
Another old neighborhood legend is gone but not forgotten.
RIP Rocco
Diana Rocco
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Dear Betty,
I am so sorry to hear of Rocco’s passing. I had the pleasure of getting to know him as well as you and your family. My deepest sympathy to all of you🙏🏻 Diana Rocco
Jimmy and Roseanne Kay
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Our hearts go out to Rocky's family. Lots of memories of family get togethers,. I especially remember having Sunday dinner at Uncle Willie and Aunt Pauline's house. My husband Jimmy always looked forward to seeing him at family events.
A couple of friends of mine had him as a gym teacher at Bishop Ford. I ran into one of them the last time I was in Brooklyn, he asked about Mr Ferranti and said that he was a mentor to him and others. Mr. Ferranti made quite an impression .
To his Aunt Lena, he was and always will be her "good lookin nephew." Hopefully she's hugging him right now.
Roseann Keenan
left a message on October 9, 2023:
Rocky was a wonderful brother to me, and my sister Joanna and an uncle to my son Philip. My favorite memory is of them playing basketball in my yard and it took till Rocky was 40 for Phil to finally win a game .Also even though he was not quite himself , when I visited him at Alcouer I found it very comforting. We would always take a walk aroun the
block, talk about our parents and things we did as a family. I would always call our sister Joanna and she would talk with him, Which was good because I knew it was hard for her
being out of state and not being able to see him as
much as she would have liked. Rocky is now in heaven with mom and dad and they are thrilled that their Prince is with them again. Love you always Roseann
Sergio Galindo
left a message on October 9, 2023:
I'm so sorry. My condolences
Gerry Griffin
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Rock was one of the nicest person one could hope to meet. Still have the photo of him in my C.F. home. He absolutely owned every place he visited. Rest in Peace, Rock. I will never forget you.
Jim (larry) Law
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, Jim (larry) Law lit a candle
Mae and Vito Carbonaro
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Sorry to hear about cousin Rocco. Even though we did not see each other very often I always thought about you. Will never forget you.
Tom Reed
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, Tom Reed lit a candle
John and Pat Cigliano
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, John and Pat Cigliano lit a candle
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Joe amodio
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Very sorry for your loss . I had the pleasure of knowing Rocco at st Francis he lived across the hall and in our sophomore year we shared a house off campus with a couple other guys
He was an incredible guy , his humility and zest for life was contagious
May he rest in peace
Laure & Dennis Canese
left a message on October 8, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, Laure & Dennis Canese lit a candle
Laure & Dennis Canese
left a message on October 8, 2023:
There are no good byes. We will never forget you Rocky! We will always have the happy memories of family gatherings. Rest in Peace. With Prayers Laure & Dennis
John Cigliano
left a message on October 8, 2023:
Rocky will definitely be missed. We were always talking about golf and getting together to play a round. Unfortunately that never happened. But he will always be in my prayers especially on the first tee. Maybe he will improve my handicap.
He was my BEST man at my wedding 55 years ago and we will always be grateful for that.
I will miss all his jokes and comments.
FOREVER IN OUR PRAYERS
Johnny and Pat
Frank Brancato
left a message on October 7, 2023:
I am sorry that I didn’t know Mr. Ferranti; it seems that he was a great and noble family and school man.
Peace to his soul after his body suffered so long.
Peace to his family who suffered with him.
Sincerely,
Frank Brancato
Bishop Ford CCHS 1999–2012
NUNZIO & ROSALIND INNUCCI, SR
left a message on October 7, 2023:
In memory of Rocco A. Ferranti, NUNZIO & ROSALIND INNUCCI, SR lit a candle
Nick Ricardo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
Great man.. Even better neighbor. He taught me how to golf, chipping in the yard all the time. Loved growing up on street and getting into mischief with his son Will.. Rocco was always there for us. Deepest condolences.
Jack Sheehan
left a message on October 7, 2023:
To Betty and the Family,
It's a sad day for all to have lost such a wonderful man. Rocco was the sweetest and gentlest guy I have ever known. His smile and giggle will stay with me for all times. I consider myself very fortunate to have had Rocco as a dear friend. Jack
Cindy and Michae lSauber
left a message on October 7, 2023:
A nice funny kind neighbor, Rocco will be missed .
Ralph & Joanne Figliuolo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
Our sincerest condolences to the family on the loss of Rocco. He will be missed by us and the Equestra community. We will always treasure our memories with Him at the golf outings and in the swimming pool.
Praying He now Rests in Peace with the perpetual light shining upon Him. 🙏💔
Alan Cafiero
left a message on October 7, 2023:
Will and family: my deepest condolences to your entire family. Rocco (Mr. Ferranti to us) was a great man and was so nice to myself and all of our friends around Maywood growing up. I have many fond memories of him chipping golf balls in the backyard and taking Will and I to Orchard Hills golf course in Paramus. He will be truly missed.
Dan Cupo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
He was an kind and gentle person knew him through pickel ball. He played really well switching hands when needed. He also possessed a great sense of humor. I and others enjoyed his company. My sincerest condolences to Rocco’s family. Too sad….
Wayne Fanciullo
left a message on October 7, 2023:
I send my condolences to you Elizabeth and family Rocco was a good man with a great sense of humor.
Pam Bobrow
left a message on October 6, 2023:
Sending my deepest love and condolences to you all.
Joanna Davidson
left a message on October 6, 2023:
I will truly miss you Rocky. You were a wonderful brother with a great sense of humor and a kind person. You will stay in my heart forever. Love your sister, Joanna
Shirley Aldebol
left a message on October 6, 2023:
I'm so sorry for your loss. I offer you my warmest sympathies and prayers during this difficult time.
Brian and Lisarae DHuyvetter
left a message on October 6, 2023:
Our condolences and prayers are with your entire family.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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