Rocco J. Russo

Born on November 7 , 1924 in Port Chester, NY to Louis & Rose (Colantuone) Russo, Rocky lived a full life defined by faith, family and an endless zest for living.

After being a star athlete at Port Chester High School, he enlisted in the Navy during WW II. He served honorably on the USS Aucilla and was stationed in the Pacific. Upon returning from service, he played semi-professional football for the Port Chester 90’s and later built and ran his successful electrical contracting business, Rocco J. Russo Ltd. out of Port Chester, NY.

In 1951 he met the love of his life, Winifred “Winnie” Wade on a blind date. They would go on to marry on April 13, 1952. Together they spent 73 years raising their children, traveling the world and building an unbelievable life filled with love, loyalty and adventure.

After retirement, Rocky and Winnie moved to Venice, FL and he spent his time impressing all of his friends on the golf course.

His greatest joy in life was being known as ‘Pappy’ and teaching his grandchildren card games and a deep appreciation of Italian food. Known for his competitive spirit and warm smile, Rocco’s legacy will live on through his fan club of his grandchildren, affectionately known as - ‘Pappy’s People.’

Rocky is preceded in death by his parents and six siblings, Lee, Teresa, Joseph, Angelo, Jean and Louis Jr. He is survived by his beloved wife of 73 years Winifred and his five children Mark (Andrea) of Weston, CT, Janice Spadaro (Phil) of Stamford, CT, Steven (Lisa) of Weston, CT, Teri Burke (Robert) of Greenwich, CT and John of Tequesta, FL. He is also survived by his 13 grandchildren Lauren, Caitlyn, Eric, Ryan, Matthew, Meagan, Samantha, Ashley, Christopher, Connor, Briana, Kailey, Philip and 11 great-grandchildren, Caroline, Claire, James, Mikey, Zoe, Rocco, Francis, Nathan, Rose, Pierce and Scarlett.

A celebration of Rocky’s incredible life will be held on Friday November 7, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church at 29 Cox Ave, Armonk, NY. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10316. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery and will be private.

The family wishes to extend our sincere gratitude to Rocky’s aides Sandy and Sabrina, and his care team at Northern Westchester Hospital whose compassion and kindness meant so much. Arrangements are by Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, Stamford, CT.