Obituary of Filippo Rocca

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Filippo Rocca wish to announce his passing on March 10th, 2023 at the Saint John Regional Hospital after his brief but courageous battle with cancer. During his illness, he was constantly surrounded by his loving family and special companion Valerie Anderson.

Filippo was born in 1936 in Lamezia Terme, Calabria, Italy, to Pasquale and Angela (Cozza) Rocca. As a young and fearless 20 year old man, he made the tough decision to leave behind his family and friends to seek a better life in Canada. Upon his arrival, his tenacity held strong as he faced numerous challenges. He was not afraid to take on the hard, laborious work necessary in order to succeed in fulfilling his dream of a secure future for his wife and children. As the years passed and true to his word, he was proud of having accomplished what he had set out to do in this country that was now home to him. Even with all the sacrifices he had to make, his was a life well lived to the fullest.

Filippo was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Giovanna (Mastroianni) Rocca in 2016, as well as one son, Antonio (Tony) Rocca in 2001. He is survived by his son Pat (Cheryl) Rocca, of Rothesay, one daughter Angela (Silvio) Sagrati, of Saint John, four grandchildren, Andrea (Pat Allanach) Rocca, Kristopher Rocca, Patrick (Taylor Perry-Lewin) Rocca and Alessandra Sagrati. He is also survived by his sister Giovanna (Filippo) Rocca and one brother Armelino (Brenda) Rocca as well as several nieces and nephews.

Resting at Castle Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Ave, Saint John, NB, visitations and reception will be held on Thursday, March 16th from 9:30am to 11:30am. A mass of Christian Burial will take place directly after at 12 noon at Holy Spirit Parish (St. Rose of Lima) Church. Encryption will follow in the family mausoleum at the Holy Cross Cemetery. Donations to the charity of the donor’s choice will be gladly accepted and appreciated by the family. Online condolences can be made at www. Castlefh.com.