Obituary of Mario Rocchetta
Rocchetta, Mario
May 7, 1940 – October 12, 2023
It is with profound sadness, that we announce the peaceful passing of Mario Rocchetta, on October 12, 2023 at the age of 83. Son of Maria-Cristina and Giovanni. He will be deeply missed by Anna, his wife of 56 years. Loving father of Cristina (Tony) and Annamaria. Proud and Cherished Nonno of Erica, Vittoria, Nico, Téa and Luna. He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Maido (Clara), Veneranda (Mario) and his brother in law Alessandro (Lidia). Mario is pre-deceased by his sister Mariannina (Franco), his brother Michele (Emma) and brother in law Ercole (Christina). Family and friends meant the world to Mario, and many nieces, nephews and extended family here in Canada and Italy will miss his presence.
Mario lived a very fulfilling life. He was born in Aiello-Calabro, Calabria, Italy, where he followed his passion of art and design and studied drafting. He joined his brothers in 1964 and immigrated to Canada. He immediately became involved in the Oshawa Italian Community by playing soccer and becoming a member of the Oshawa Italian Recreation Club. It was through the Club that he made lifelong friends, sat on the Board of Directors as well as organized a variety of Dinner Dances and Cultural events. He was known for creating and building the Italian Club Floats for the Annual Fiesta Parade along with his friends for many years. His family will remember his artistic flare when either painting, sculpting, gardening as well as his famous Christmas Presepe (Nativity Scene), of which he was always so proud.
Mario was initially self-employed and eventually worked for General Motors of Canada, until his retirement. He loved to travel with his wife, family, and friends, and never missed the opportunity to dance. His dream was to provide a comfortable life for his family, and he continuously demonstrated a most admired work ethic as well as lived his life with the utmost humility and integrity. He was always grateful for the opportunities offered by making Canada his home.
“You have left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, and though we cannot see you, you are always by our side.”
A special thank you to Dr. Barrettara, the incredible staff and caregivers of WWMD Home Healthcare for their unwavering compassion and care.
Visitation will be held at the DeStefano Funeral Home 1289 Keith Ross Drive in Oshawa (905) 440 3595 on Sunday October 15th from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church in Oshawa on Monday October 16th at 10:30am. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Whitby.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mario’s name to Parkinson Canada or Grandview Children’s Centre would be appreciated.
