Enrica Zocchi

We are saddened to announce that the world has lost the brightest light with the passing of Enrica Antonia Zocchi, a devoted wife, proud mother and grandmother, inspiring educator, and lifelong learner who passed away at the age of 89 after a life driven by faith, love, and kindness.

Born in the small town of Samarate, Italy, she lived through WW2 and the loss of her father’s textile shop. She went on to study and earn her PhD in Foreign Language and Literature and traveled throughout Europe where she taught herself many languages. From her travels and studies, she learned a wealth of knowledge in ancient, medieval, renaissance, and modern literature. Her other great passion was classical music. Her ability to identify composers and artists was a talent she used to win concert tickets on WRR. Enrica’s passion for learning languages and culture was evident to anyone that took her Italian classes at the many places she taught including New York University and the University of Dallas where she was granted Emeritus Professor status. After retiring, she still continued to be a lifelong learner and taught herself Russian.

Enrica fell in love and married Aldo Zocchi and moved to the USA. She was a dedicated and supportive wife to her husband for 60 years. Together, they created a lifetime of memories travelling across the United States and around the world. Enrica and Aldo shared strong interests in exploring cultures, languages, and art of the world, often recounting stories of their adventures, the people they met, and the lessons they learned.

Enrica was an extraordinary talent. What others may spend a lifetime mastering, she pursued with skill, creativity, and genuine joy. She was known for her remarkable green thumb and never let a visitor, whether neighbor or stranger, leave her home without a gift from her garden. Enrica was an artist in the kitchen, never using a measuring cup or looking at a recipe, she was an intuitive and remarkable chef, pâtissière, and host.

Her proudest moments were time spent with her children and grandchildren. She is lovingly remembered for the joy she cultivated around a dining table, sharing stories, reminiscing memories, all while blessing those around her with her special dishes. Her gentle spirit and fierce love for her family will be forever cherished by all who knew her.

Enrica is survived by her son Kent Zocchi, daughter Christine Alvarado and her husband Ron Wheeler, and 4 grandchildren Micaela, Cristian, Sofia, and Emma. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Aldo Zocchi, parents Maria Rossini and Alfredo Ponti, and her son Alex Zocchi.

Enrica encompassed grace, benevolence, and everything bright and beautiful in this world. She will be missed dearly and longingly remembered.

Enrica will be laid to rest in Calvary Hill Cemetery, 3235 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, TX 75220-3338; PRINCE OF PEACE PRIVATE ESTATE; Lot: 9, Grave: 2.