Rocco J. DeRose Sr.

Rocco “Rocky” John DeRose Sr., age 92, of West Haven, CT passed away on May 7, 2023.  He was born September 16, 1930, in New Haven, CT, son of the late John and Mary Girasuolo DeRose.  Rocco was a respected Service Technician who retired from the City of West Haven after many years.  He also was a Commercial Photographer with the Nuclear Corporation in New Haven, CT.  His proudest moments were as a U.S. Navy Quartermaster and Radioman aboard the USS Zellars (DD-777) during the Korean Conflict.  In his spare time, he enjoyed his 3D printer, carving characters from wood and wax and anything trains or RC Helicopters with his friends and family.

Rocky was predeceased by his loving wife Geraldine “Gerry” Miller DeRose, his eldest son Rocco DeRose Jr., his sister Josephine Bassetti and his brother Joseph DeRose. 

Rocky is survived by his loving children: Gary DeRose Sr. and his wife Anna (Chris) DeRose of Ocala, FL, Joy DeGennaro and her husband Mark DeGennaro of West Haven, John A. DeRose II and his wife Isabelle DeRose of Bradenton, FL, Ex- daughter-in-law Catherine D’Amato of West Haven: nine grandchildren, Gary Jr., Scott, Brian, Douglas, Sara, Samantha, Joseph, Jessica, and Christina, fifteen great grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews, friend and companion Mary Fanning and her children Kevin Fanning, Tim Fanning, and Karen Baklick.

A Memorial Service for Rocky will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, Norwalk, CT Office, 38 Richards Ave Norwalk, CT 06854.  West Haven Funeral Home at the Green has been entrusted with arrangements.  To sign Rocky’s online register book, please visit our website at www.westhavenfuneral.com.

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