Rocco Patrick Pergola, born September 13, 1933 in South Boston, moved out of the darkness of his failing body on September 22, 2023 at 90, uniting with his father Patrick, mother Carmela, and sibling Robert in heaven. Known to those who loved him as Sonny, Doc, Uncle, Dad, and Papa, Rocco joined the U.S. Air Force after graduating from South Boston High School in 1951. He served during the Korean War from 1951-1955 as an aircraft mechanic for the Liberty Bell Squadron B-26 Night Invader and later as an office manager in Japan after the armistice was signed in 1953.
Rocco married the love of his life, Geraldine (Corsi) Pergola on September 9, 1956. They raised a family in Avon Massachusetts from 1956 – 2005 and camped each summer in Bridgton Maine, before retiring to the Florida sunshine. Rocco worked at Anderson Power Products, Queen Screw and Manufacturing, and Palco Plastics in his life, but his passion was living life to the fullest and helping others. He gave many their first jobs, free shoes, and second chances. Rocco, a member of the Massachusetts Freemasons since 1957, defined himself as a philosopher and poet and was known for his colorful storytelling. Rocco was a talented musician, and loved jazz, swing, and big band.
Only death could separate him from his devoted wife of 67 years, Geraldine, and his greatest source of pride, his children and grandchildren: Mark Pergola and his wife Meredith (Seay) Pergola of Florida; Janet (Pergola) Brown and her husband Sean Brown of Massachusetts; Philip Pergola and his wife Mary (Lambert) Pergola of Massachusetts, and Sharon (Pergola) Brown and her husband Royce Brown of Florida. Each of eight grandchildren Lindsey Pergola, Lauren Pergola, Morgan Pergola, Samuel Pergola, Lillian Pergola, Ryan Pergola, Mia Brown, and Harper Brown carries his charm, love of family, willingness to support others, and understanding that human connection is the most important aspect of life.
He is also survived by his brother Joseph Pergola, sister Rose Kierce, brother-in-law Chris Kierce, sister in-law Pia Smith, sister in-law Ruth Pergola, and his cherished nephews and nieces.
Rocco is now resting where the sand is soft and warm and the waters glimmer forever. He loved and was loved, and he will be deeply missed.
Rocco’s family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, 501 E. Mitchell Hammock Road, Oviedo, FL 32765. A service with military honors will follow at 2 p.m.