Rocco Guido Vitch

Rotterdam - Rocco Guido Vitch of Rotterdam died peacefully on February 18, 2018 after a short illness. Rocco was the son of the late Rocco and Sadie Damiano Vitch. He was a 1949 graduate of Draper High School and attended Siena College. He served aboard the U.S.S. Valcour, flagship for the Commander Middle East Force in the Persian Gulf. Rocco also served as first trumpet with the U.S. Navy Band in Green Cove Springs, Florida. After the service he was employed by the General Electric Company for 40 years, retiring in 1989. Rocco was a member of the G.E. Quarter Century Club and the Helderberg Rod and Gun Club. Rocco took immense pleasure in a day of fishing when shared with a family member or close friend. He was a strong advocate of “selective harvesting”. He was survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, the former June Constance LaLone; a daughter, Linda Ann (Mark) Ciotoli of Duanesburg; sons Mark Vitch of Schoharie and Kurt (Holly) Vitch of Knox; granddaughters Kristen Ciotoli and Nicole Ciotoli of Duanesburg. Rocco was predeceased by his son Christopher R. Vitch, sister Philomena “Thelma” Massaro and brothers Donald Vitch and Robert Vitch. He was also survived by several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held Wednesday evening from 4:00 to 7:00 at the DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 1605 Helderberg Avenue, Rotterdam. Funeral services will begin Thursday at 10:00 AM at the funeral home followed by burial at St. Cyril Cemetery, Rotterdam. “Thanks, Dad (and Grandpa) for bringing us fishing…..”