Patsy John Rocco

Patsy John Rocco passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 6, 2025, at the age of 96. Until recently, he had been living independently in his long-time home, still driving and preparing his own meals. His passing followed complications from a broken hip sustained a month earlier.

Born in Chicago on December 23, 1928, to Italian parents, Antoinette and Christ Rocco, Patsy grew up alongside his younger brother and best friend, Richard, who preceded him in death.

A standout athlete, particularly in football, Patsy became an All-State running back for Mount Carmel High School in Chicago, famously recalling a game where he scored five touchdowns. His talent earned him a full football scholarship to the University of Georgia, where, impressively, he played both offense and defense for the Bulldogs.

After college, Patsy returned to Chicago and married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Sens, in 1951. Their family life began quickly with the arrival of their first daughter, Rae, just 11 months later. Over the next 13 years, they welcomed Wendy, Perry, Lori, and Becky. Patsy was sadly preceded in death by his “Little Angel”, Lori.

Patsy worked as an accountant for the Illinois Central Railroad and later as a sales agent for Prudential Insurance. To support his growing family, he took on evening and weekend jobs, most notably refereeing basketball and football games alongside his brother, Richard. As the “Rocco Brothers” they were a dynamic duo, known for their energetic officiating – running, whistle-blowing, and making calls with equal gusto, a style that coaches either loved or loathed.

A cherished family tradition was the annual "Splash Party" hosted in Patsy and Phyllis’ suburban Chicago backyard, drawing over forty relatives across three generations. The Rocco Brothers were often found together manning the grill, cooking up hot dogs, burgers, and Italian sausages for the crowd.

Patsy and Phyllis delighted as their family grew. Their son Perry married Bobbi, and they had three children: Kyle, Heather (married to Scott Runyon, parents of Patsy's great-grandson, Cody), and Carly (married to Preston Marcoux). Daughter Becky married Jim Read and moved to Kauai, Hawaii, where they still reside. Daughter Wendy married Alan Petersen, and they have two sons, Jordan and Graham. Daughter Rae found her life partner, Larry Coltrain, in 1995, and they have been together ever since.

In retirement, Patsy and Phyllis enjoyed international travel. A memorable early adventure was a whirlwind two-week tour of six European countries, chauffeured and guided by three of their well-traveled daughters. Patsy, an avid watcher of animal documentaries, particularly treasured their safari in Kenya. They also made frequent trips to Hawaii, often to visit Becky and Jim.

Patsy loved fly fishing, making many trips to Ely, Minnesota. He passed on his passion, teaching Rae and Perry to cast during their childhood summers at Flint Lake and later at Lake Freeman in Indiana. He didn't just catch the bluegills; he expertly cleaned and fried them for dinner.

He was a devoted supporter of his family's athletic endeavors, from watching his son Perry swim in high school and at Purdue University, to attending countless games and events for his five grandchildren. Whether in Chicago or Park City, Utah, he cheered them on in soccer, basketball, baseball, cross country, track, volleyball, fencing, ski racing, and ski jumping. Patsy was the ultimate sports fan.

Patsy loved Las Vegas! Initially visiting annually with Phyllis from Chicago for shows and gambling, his trips became more frequent, 2-3 times a year, fueled by his enjoyment of sports betting – especially March Madness basketball, a tournament he followed avidly since 1970. In 2000, Patsy convinced Phyllis to make Las Vegas their permanent home.

Patsy and Phyllis shared a loving marriage spanning over 72 years. When Phyllis's health declined and she required assistance with daily activities, Patsy became her devoted, full-time caretaker at home. He rarely left her side, cherishing their time together above all else. Following Phyllis's passing in June 2024, not a day went by that Patsy didn't reminisce over the thousands of photos capturing their life together.

In the last five years, Patsy and Phyllis received devoted support from their daughter Rae. She first assisted Patsy in caring for Phyllis, and after her mother's passing, lovingly supported Patsy as he adjusted to living alone, considering it a privilege, not a sacrifice. Rae's partner, Larry, stood steadfastly beside her, offering help whenever needed, day or night. He shared Rae's deep affection, viewing Patsy and Phyllis as his own parents.

Patsy had a big personality and an even bigger heart, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and fond memories; anyone who knew him likely has a funny story to share. He was the best husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, uncle, father-in-law, and friend one could hope for. He lived a long and full life, yet his family will always wish they had just a little more time with him.

In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

In honor of Patsy, have a peppers and eggs sandwich, his all-time favorite breakfast!