In Loving Memory of
Rocco Girolamo
March 2, 1949 ~ May 19, 2026
Obituary of Rocco Girolamo
It is with deeply saddened hearts that we announce the passing of Rocco Girolamo at NHS–Niagara Falls Site on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the age of 77, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. He is now reunited with his beloved parents, Cosimo and Maria Girolamo (née Cirocco).Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of nearly 52 years, Nina Girolamo (née Scialdone); his loving children, Cosimo Girolamo (Lisa Ferrantelli) and Marie Girolamo (Gian Paolo Andreis). Rocco was a fiercely proud Nonno to Ellis Harman and an honorary Nonno to Pres and Tenley, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. He will also be remembered by his sister Gina Menechella (Cosmo, 2023), his cousin Rocco Luigi Girolamo (Lina), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends in Niagara, Montreal, Toronto, Boston, Spain, and Italy.
Rocco was truly one of a kind. Beneath his occasionally gruff exterior was a warm, generous, and caring man who loved deeply and lived fully. He had a larger-than-life personality, loved being surrounded by people, and never missed the chance to tell a story, often teasing those he loved most, always with affection and humour.
A hardworking and passionate entrepreneur, Rocco spent many years as a proud business owner and operator. He began with Chez Rocco pizzeria in St. Eustache, Quebec, before relocating to Niagara Falls where he became a familiar face behind several local establishments including Kozy Korner Restaurant, The Hill Restaurant, The Pilgrim, The Wedgwood, Pizza Mia, and finally Sunrise Deli, where many still fondly remember his famous subs and warm hospitality.
Rocco had a lifelong passion for cars, proudly owning and trading more than 90 over the years. He also loved playing cards, visiting the casino, and in his younger days enjoyed golfing — a sport at which he confidently claimed to be “pretty good.” In recent years, some of his happiest moments were spent during his almost daily visits to Italian Ice Cream and Mr. Cappuccino, where he was welcomed not only as a customer, but as a dear friend.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to gather at St. Ann Roman Catholic Church, 5740 Buchanan Avenue, Niagara Falls, on Tuesday, May 26, at 10:00 a.m., with a Funeral Mass to follow. Arrangements have been entrusted to Essentials Cremation and Burial Services, Niagara Falls.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Ann Church would be sincerely appreciated.
Service Information
Visitation
Date: May 26, 2026Start Time: 10:00 am
End Time: 11:00 am
Venue: St. Ann Roman Catholic Church, 5740 Buchanan Avenue, Niagara Falls
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Funeral Mass
Date: May 26, 2026Start Time: 11:00 am
End Time: 12:00 pm
Venue: St. Ann Roman Catholic Church, 5740 Buchanan Avenue, Niagara Falls
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In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Ann Church would be sincerely appreciated.Note: If you make a donation, please notify the family by posting a condolence.
Dear Nina and family. Such sudden news of Rocco’s passing. I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember Rocco used to fill in for his cousin Rocco at Sir Angelo’s in Hamilton where I had a part time job and when I first met him. He brought a lot of fun and joy into my life. I learned a lot from his rough-and-tumble gentle and genuine character. Although I haven’t seen him in many years I always tell the oranges in a box prank that he played on me. Gone too soon. My prayers and my family’s prayers are with you. From Dan Jenifer Juliana Joseph and Jon-Anthony.
Dear Nina, Cosimo and Marie,
I was deeply saddened to hear the passing of Patino Rocky (as I used to call him). Although many years have passed since we last saw one another, I have always carried fond memories of him. May the memories you shared bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead. My deepest condolence. Patina Filomena and family.
Dear Nina, Cosimo, and Marie,
Mario and I were very surprised at Rocco’s sudden passing. Knowing that you have many friends to care and comfort you I’m sure is a true blessing. In circumstances such as this when loosing a loved one in death, I personally turned to the Bible for encouragement, one scripture that gives me hope for the future is found here at
Revelation 21:3,4. It says
God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away…
Keeping you all close in mind Angela Mario and family.
Dear Nina and family:
Find comfort in the knowledge that the power of Heaven and the love of God are with you during this most difficult time.
Sincere condolences to you and your family. From Rocco’s godchild in Montreal Concetta and the rest of my family. 🙏rest in peace.
Nina, Cosimo and Maria our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your husband, Father and a loving Grandfather May he now rest in peace in the arms of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Lib and Annina Zappitelli
Rocco will be remembered with love by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence brought warmth, laughter, to those around him, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. Sending sincere condolences during this heartbreaking time. May you find comfort in the love surrounding you and in the many cherished memories shared with Rocco. 🙏💙
Dear Nina, Marie and Gian Paolo,
Philip and I send our sympathies to you and your entire family. The unexpected is particularly hard to bear. We are all thinking of you here in Toronto and send you our love.