Obituary of Rocco Morra
Rocco L. Morra, 86, a lifelong Herkimer resident, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday evening, March 31, 2005. His passing occurred in St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica, with his loving family by his side. He was born on April 2, 1918 in Herkimer a son of the late Anthony and Lillian (Annutto) Morra, was educated in Herkimer schools and served in the Civilian Conservation Corps. (CCC's). It was in 1940 that he was joined in marriage with the former Leona Bernier in Herkimer. Throughout their 65-years together, Rocco and Leona perfectly complemented one another, especially in regard to sharing the joys and blessings of family life. Rocco's last professional employment was with the former Library Bureau in Herkimer where he served the company with 35 years of dedicated service. Rocco was a man of great integrity an honor, one who lived up to the highest standards, both in the workplace and in his home life. Devoted to faith, he was a communicant of Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church, Herkimer. Rocco was gifted with a positive outlook and a kind heart. It was these qualities that earned him the respect of family and friends over the years. A true family man, he always fulfilled his responsibilities to his loved ones with pride and dedication. Rocco had a tremendous zest for life. His true love and support came from his beautiful wife Leona of 65 years. From her he obtained strength and comfort right through his final days. His favorite pastimes included hunting, fishing, and gardening, but most of all spending time with his children and grandchildren. Rocco had a true passion for dance and participated in various dance competitions where he was well known for his style and class. His energy will deeply be missed by all those who shared life with him. Rocco leaves behind his beloved family including his wife: Leona, of Herkimer; two sons: Tony Morra and Ben Morra both of Herkimer; a daughter: Sondra Stagliano and husband Mario of Herkimer; a brother: Joseph Morra and Pat Rickard of Herkimer; four sisters: Rose Caliguire of Herkimer, Jetta Aiello and husband Jim of Herkimer, Angela Bingham and husband Ned of Herkimer and Patty Volo and husband Robert of Herkimer; seven cherished grandchildren: Joseph Stagliano and wife Pam, Melissa Naegele and husband Steven, Michelle Blais and husband Michael, Marla Stagliano, Brock, Ryan, and Amanda Morra; six adored great grandchildren: Alyssa, Joey, Isabella, Gulianna, Tino, and Michael; many nieces, nephews and cousins. A brother predeceased him: Ben Morra and a brother in law Vincent Caliguire. There will be no public visitation. The family respectfully invites relatives and friends to a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 10 am on Tuesday, April 5th, 2005 from the Church of Sts. Anthony and Joseph, South Main Street, Herkimer with the Rev. Anthony Ligato, pastor, officiating. He will be laid to rest this spring in Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer. The family would like to thank Chris Cacozza, House Supervisor, the ER, ICU, CT-ICU and 3B staff at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center for all of the outstanding care and faithful support. A special heartfelt thanks to granddaughter, Michelle Blais, RN whose strength, compassion, and intelligence enabled all to be at peace during this difficult time. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be considered to the Amercian Heart Association or to Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church, Herkimer. Holleran & Enea Family Funeral Home, "Our Family serving Your Family."