Rocco Surace, 80, of Milford CT, beloved husband of Natalina Surace, passed away on August 18th, 2024. He was the son of the late Fortunato and Serafina Surace (nee Ciccone). Rocco, a cherished husband, father, and friend, was born in Solano, Calabria, Italy on May 12th, 1944. Rocco’s life is a testament to his enduring spirit and deep love for his family and friends.
Rocco’s early childhood years were spent in Italy. Along with his parents, brother and four sisters, the family traveled by ship to Argentina. In Argentina his family came to know Natalina’s family laying the pathway for their reunion later on in NY. Rocco's family then moved to Windsor, Canada where he spent his formative years learning guitar from his uncle Frank Ciccone, hunting and enjoying his family. He eventually settled in Westchester, New York where he began his professional career first as a hairdresser and then as a computer systems analyst, a field in which he worked through retirement. Through their families, Rocco and Natalina reconnected in NY and were soon married, going on to have two children and enjoy 51 years of love, laughter and making memories around the table by one anothers side and surrounded by family and friends.
In 1977, Rocco and his family moved from Yorktown Heights, NY to Milford, CT where he and Natalina would welcome you into their home like family. In Milford he became known for his generosity and willingness to help others or lend a hand, no matter the endeavor. Rocco’s lighthearted nature and quick wit brought joy to everyone around him. He had a unique ability to make people laugh and uplift their spirits.
Find out what's happening in Milfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Rocco will be remembered as a long time coach with Milford United soccer and other clubs throughout the area. Rocco coached a generation of young players, inspiring a passion for the sport and a sense of community that still unites his former players today.
Throughout the years in Milford, Rocco and Natalina’s various delis and pizzerias became an extension of their living room feeding countless numbers of family and friends. Rocco was always by Natalina’s side, helping her prepare food and activities for her students in CT and NY. He made countless trips up and down I-95 with a trunk full of food and supplies for her students.
Find out what's happening in Milfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Among Rocco's many other interests was a love for music, particularly playing classical flamenco guitar, which he played with great skill. Rocco and Natalina never missed a chance to hit the dance floor. A skilled gardener, Rocco and his adoring neighbor Aunt Mary would compete for the first tomatoes and cucumbers. Gardening brought him joy, especially tending to his fig trees. Rocco also enjoyed making his own wine, and soppressata with his friend Rosario, a tradition that he shared with his loved ones. He and Natalina especially cherished family ski trips to Vermont and summer vacations to the Jersey shore. Rocco continued his world travels with his family. Whether it was fishing in Mexico, skiing in VT, a Guinness in Ireland or scouting out fig trees in Greece, Italy or Spain, Rocco enjoyed life. An avid fisherman and hunter, Rocco embraced the outdoors and found solace in nature. His love for his Milford community and his home by the beach was evident in everything he did.
Rocco is survived by his two beloved children: son, Fortunato Surace and daughter, Sarína Surace (Francisco). He is predeceased by siblings: Vincenza, Frank, Rosa, Josephine, and Mary as well as brothers/sisters in law, Salvatore, Domenica and Albino. He is also survived by his mother in law, Melina, and brothers/sisters in law: Mario, Orazio, Maria (Charlie), Grace, Carmelo, Dominic (Bonnie). He is additionally survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nephews, and several cousins across the US, Argentina, Canada and Italy. Rocco has been a dear friend to many over the years from Canada, Italy, New York, and Milford who became like family, especially his neighbor Bill.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, August 29th, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford. A Memorial Service is to begin at 1:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s & Milford Senior Center made out to MCOA (Milford Council on Aging) care of Executive Director Leonora Rodriguez by mail to 9 Jepson Drive Milford, CT 06460
To leave online condolences, please visit our website at https://www.codywhitefuneralservice.com/
