Rocco "Rocky" M. Cappuccilli

Rocco “Rocky” Cappuccilli,96, of Camillus, passed away Tuesday at Francis House. He was a lifelong devout Catholic, communicant of St. Joseph's Church in Camillus, and member of the Knights of Columbus. Nothing was more important to Rocky than his family, including his wife, Dorothy “Dot,” children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His work ethic and positive attitude inspired all who knew him. Rocky counseled many generations of family and friends with his faith, wisdom, guidance, and wealth of business and life experiences. His deep faith and devotion to family were his life's compass, leaving cherished memories and wonderful examples for all who knew and loved him.

After high school, Rocky served in the army and, upon his return, enrolled at Le Moyne College, receiving his degree in 1952. One month later, he married the love of his life, Dot, and they walked through life hand in hand.

An avid golfer, Rocky had eight holes-in-one, was a proud member of Tuscarora Golf Club for nearly his entire adult life, founder of Village Green Golf & CC (Foxfire), and charter member of Bear Lakes Country Club in West Palm Beach, FL. He enjoyed playing card games, including gin and pitch and could fix anything around the house. He cheered loudly for the SU football and basketball teams and enjoyed telling humorous stories and good-natured jokes. He relished his time spent at Skaneateles Lake surrounded by family.

Rocky, in partnership with his three brothers and cousin, was a prominent developer and builder of large-scale housing developments, apartments, and commercial and infrastructure projects prominently in CNY.

Rocky was predeceased by his loving wife Dorothy of 70 years; grandsons, Robby and Joseph Mead; parents, Leopold and Antonietta; sisters, Josephine Geiss and Mary (“Nard”) Paratore; and brothers, Tony, Peter, and Al. 

Surviving are Rocky’s loving children, Mark (Mary Anne), Mary (Jim) Mead, Karen (Michael) Curry, and Timothy; sister-in-law, Diane Dwyer; grandchildren, Kelly Sliwowski, Christopher Cappuccilli, Jennifer Connor, Sean Curry, Jessica Ferris, Megan Fiacco, and Jeremy Mead; ten great-grandchildren; many loving nieces, nephews and other extended family; and close friends, Dot and Joe Boehm. 

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Rocky’s goddaughter, Lisa (Cappuccilli) Smith; nieces, Lucy, Deb, and Sandy; nephews, Peter and Paul; several loving caregivers; Francis House; and Hospice of CNY. 

There will be no calling hours.

Family and friends are welcome to attend the funeral Mass being celebrated on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus. 

Rocky will be laid to rest in St. Mary's Cemetery, DeWitt. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208, or to St. Joseph’s Church Food Pantry, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031.