Rocco “Rock” Basacco

A true gentleman a true person at so many levels on and off the field he & his brother Syl were family to all of us at the Club for years & years . They will always be remembered as the best of the best Syl # 13 and Rocco # 7 at times but also # 17 . I was one of the lucky kids on the block that played with both of them on the same pitch & they knew how to create unity amongst players and anyone that loves the game of Soccer . I will cherish both these gentlemen forever . Love you both very much Vito Pettinato & family . RIP

Nino: A belated but most sincere message of condolence to you and your family for your loss of Rocco. Glad to read that he died peacefully. What a legend!

With sadness I received the news about Rocco passing. I knew Rocco quite well , officiated Rocco and his Brother Syl when both played for Marconi in the NSL I also attended a Coaches Clinic he held in Woodstock for our Soccer Club. I can only say Rocco was a true Gentleman, as a player and as a Coach for Western , I was lucky to have officiated in. My sincere condolences to his Family and Brother Syl. May he rest in peace

I am very saddened to hear about Rock’s passing. I really enjoyed my time playing Western soccer and it has a lot do with the environment he created as coach. He had a lot of integrity and a great passion for the game. The Basacco family has my deepest condolences.

Nino we are so sorry for the loss of your brother our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ❤️

I was so saddened to hear of Rock’s passing. As a player on the Western women’s team during Rock’s early years of coaching there, I didn’t get to know him as well as many of you but there were certain things about Rock that were evident to anyone who crossed paths with him - his passion and skill for the game, the genuine warmth and care he had for others, and his exceptional integrity. He leaves a remarkable legacy with the countless lives he has touched for the better - may this be a comfort to his family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Rock.

I met Rocco when he played soccer for Marconi F.C.back in the 70's. At that time I was General Manager for the London Greek Olympians F.C. Those days the games between Olympians and Marconi were an event. Rocco loved the game. He was a fierce competitor, but always a sportsman. It was a privilege to know Rocco as a person and to have played against him on the field. The game lost a great champion. RIP. Alex

Rock was a man of integrity in a world often plagued with anger frustration, hypocrisy and selfish cruelty. As a fellow teacher, I always felt better as a person and as one always looking for the good in life. ROCK MADE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE! ?

Every member of our family was deeply saddened to hear about Rocco. So many memories of the past filled with laughter and tears. Our heartfelt condolences to everyone in the family during this difficult time. We have no doubt Rock and Syl are catching up while they smile down on us. Sincerely, Florence, Michael, Madalina, Frank and Dean

I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Rock and how much he suffered during the past few months. I would like to pass on my deepest condolences to his entire family. He was an unbelievable, genuine individual that I admired greatly. He was a passionate and dedicated coach, a respected general, that demanded the same high standards from all his players. He took an under performing Western men's program and turned it into one of the best in the country. He got results and won trophies, but most importantly, he cared about his players. He was a father figure to a lot of us and for that I am very grateful. He used this great game to create a family environment, where respect and goodwill to others was installed. It's no coincidence that so many of his former players and now presently coaching themselves and giving back to this great game. Rock, thank you for everything, you'll always be remembered as a LEGEND! God bless your soul, and may your memory be eternal!!!

Rock was a wonderful co-worker for many years at AVSS. He was one of the kindest, most compassionate teachers that I have had the privilege to work with. His sense of humour was contagious to all and his smile would light up the room. He was well loved and respected by his fellow teachers and the students he taught. He will be greatly missed.

Rock was a kind man and a wonderful teacher, coach and mentor to so many students and staff at Arthur Voaden SS. He will be missed by all who knew him.

I entered the funeral home tonight with a heavy heart and eyes full of tears. I left with a smile. After sharing sooooo many Rock stories, I imagined him standing there laughing (in his unique snidely way) at the multitude of stories and antics...sometimes laughing at himself. I am blessed to have had friend that often reciprocated "I love ya, buddy" hugs. (the master math teacher would be impressed with my mastery of gizzinta terms). I am indeed lucky. Almost 40 years of love and laughter with an angel. Miss him deeply. Thanks to Jessica and David for your enduring love of him. Rock Solid forever. Uweee

Rock is truly one of kind. I was lucky to of know him well during our soccer days, and I am honoured to have called him my friend on or off the field. deepest condolences, Adam Piotrowski

I send all of my love and regards from Kingston. Since Rock's passing, I have taken time to remember my time as a player under him at Western. A man like Rock with such a deep, caring, and empathetic approach to life is difficult to sum up in few words, but I know that he will be remembered for exactly that. Rock made those around him feel cared for as a person, and that is a rare thing to find in a coach. I learned a great deal from him, but one thing that stood out was his altruism - especially in a sporting environment, it is rare to find someone that displays that ability and desire to give to others. This altruism is reflected in his legacy at Western, in his teaching roles, and through his family. Anyone lucky enough to cross paths with Rock felt his kindness and giving nature, and I am proud to have been one of those people. My deepest condolences - Rock will be truly missed.

Our deepest condolences to the Basocco family on the passing of Rock. I had the privilege to play for Rock in the first year he took over the Western’s men’s soccer program. His passion, leadership, expectations and hard-work established an era where the men’s program was the team to beat. His accomplishments in his first few years of taking over the program truly showed us how remarkable Rock really was at whatever he set his mind too! Thank you Rock for believing in me as a player and teaching me the importance for hard-work both on and off the field. My life was positively changed from knowing you, I would have never met my wife (Women’s Western Team). Thank you for the memories and your legacy will never be forgotten! Rest in peace Rock!

Like so many others, I knew Rock through soccer. He was an amazing coach and human being. I'll always remember his kindness toward me the year my father passed. I can't believe he is gone, nor can I imagine stepping onto the field and not seeing him around. May his family find comfort in knowing how much he will be missed.

Rock was a very decent man. Our lives were enriched by knowing him.

My heart goes out to the Basacco family. I was truly blessed to have Rock in my life. He was my coach, mentor, and friend. For all the success Rock’s teams have had on the field, his greatest achievement was the impact that he had on the lives of others. Rock was a beacon of knowledge and a source of strength for so many. I was lucky enough to have Rock in my own life and journey from player to coach. In both of these roles, I have witnessed the great impact Rock has had on players both on and off the field. Even as his players moved on and away from the field, Rock took great joy in seeing them return to London and sharing their life stories with him. Very few people have had such a positive impact on so many and he will be greatly missed.

I have such a soft spot in my heart for Rock. Having played soccer with his son Dave, Rock was always such a great supporter of his son and our team. He was always so kind to me and so supportive of our team. He's such an absolute legend and such a kind soul. Dave and Jess, I can only imagine the feeling of loss you must be experiencing now. And no words can help that, just know that I'm thinking of you both and that Rock made such a huge impact in so many people's lives. Mike ("G") Grant.

Coach, this world is so much the richer through your impact. We are all blessed to have been your friend. Deepest condolences to David, Jess and your wonderful family. We love you Rock Paco, Jen, Charlie and Zoe

I am so very sad to hear of Rocco's passing and I send my deepest condolences to the family. I knew Rocco from our first year teaching. We lived in the same apartment complex in St. Thomas. Rocco was such a kind and loving person and I know he touched many lives with his kindness, integrity, love for family and love of life and fun. I feel honoured to have known Rocco. Sending prayers to the family . Roberta Reardon

Rocco was a tremendous mentor and coach to my son and all the boys in Lambeth. A true gentlemen!

I had the pleasure of working with Rock at Arthur Voaden for many years. I was amazed at his kindness, generosity and wisdom. Rock helped many teachers, myself included, recognize how special Voaden was. It is with great sorrow that I hear of Rock’s death. He was a wonderful person. He will be missed.

So sorry to hear of the passing of my Friend Rocco. Always a gentleman on and off the park. He will be sadly missed.

Played against Rocco on several occasions when he was with London Marconi and I with Hamilton Italo Canadians, and I have followed his university coaching successes. Canadian soccer has lost a valuable asset and a wonderful person. Condolences to his family and loved ones!!!

Rock was a wonderful person, kind, caring and giving, with a smile that would make others smile. He will be truly missed. My sincerest condolences to David, Jessica and the Bosacco family.

Our sincerest sympathies and prayers go out to David, Jessica, and the Bosacco family. It's not often in life that you come across a person who is selfless, honest, and loving. It's not often that you get the opportunity to have this person in your life. We were blessed to have Rock in ours. His sense of fun, love of life, and humble manner simply made you want to be around him. The world was a better place with him in it. Rock, you will be truly and sorely missed.

I played soccer with Rocco at CCH for 4 years in the early 70’s and one year with the Marconi Inter-City team. He was a great teammate and skilled soccer player. We eventually would also play against each other for 2 or 3 seasons when he played for UWO and I for Waterloo. I could tell from his passion on the pitch that he would be a leader and mentor in any endeavor he chose going forward. After University we, somehow, always met at a soccer pitch and reminisced the good times we had on and off the pitch. He was truly successful in all parts of his life and I am honored to say that he was a friend for life. Vicki and I would like to share our deepest condolences to all family members. Rest in peace.

He was one of the best I had the great luck of knowing him as a player and coach and as a ref. he was good at the full game of soccer he will be missed by many .

MY deepest condolences to Nino and the entire Basacco family . Many years ago I crossed paths with Rocco and his Marconi juggernaut team as a member of a rival team on numerous occasions over the span of 2-3 years . He was always a hard working/skilled player who displayed outstanding sportsmanship before during and after games [ win or lose ]. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this time of great sorrow.

To the Basacco Family; with a heavy heart please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of your father. As a graduate of AVSS 1988, it is a true honour to have Rock as a teacher, great person, who always tried to show everyone the true values in everything that we navigated through in life. Sorry for your loss. Keeping you close to our hearts & prayers. Pete Rybski & Family

To the family, I am so sorry to hear of Roc's passing. His cheerful smile and genuine interest in the lives of those around him was infectious. In school, soccer, and in life, he truly inspired others to keep their goals close and move forward in whatever brought them joy. Blessed to know you, Roc. Rest in peace.

To the Basacco Family; I'm a graduate of AVSS 1986, I got to know your Dad when i went back to AVSS after I graduated & eventually worked on raising money for the Rick Hansen Man in Motion World Tour. You Dad was one of my greatest supporter at the time. Sorry for your loss, RIP Rock

I am happy and honoured to have known and worked with such an amazing man. Rock your dedication to family, friends, teaching and coaching were an inspiration to me and made me a better person and teacher. Thanks for what you have done for so many. Truly another angel now in the presence of our Lord. On behalf of my wife and I, our condolences to David and Jessica and all the family

David and Jessica , it is with the heaviest of hearts that we extend our most sincere s condolences . Your Dad and Mom were a big part of our lives and a great loss . Many a good times were had and great memories made . May all your wonderful memories comfort you in this great loss . Forever in our hearts ! ❤️Adam and Yogi and family

You would've been hard-pressed to find a more compassionate and caring man than Rock. I was lucky enough to play under Rock for a month-long tournament overseas shortly after my dad had passed in 2013. Having suffered significant loss himself, he made a point to brief the team and check in with me any chance he could. Upon the final whistle after an emotional performance, he came to me first to assure me that my father would be proud. This is the man that Rock was. Many others bear similar stories as Rock so naturally influenced so many around him. His legacy lives on through his momentous impact within his community, and it is my hope that his loved ones are able to find solace by virtue of the many lives he touched. Peace and love from Ottawa. RIP, Coach.

Sending our condolences to all of Rock's family at the news of his passing. I had the privilege of playing soccer with Rock during his early days at Marconi and following his outstanding career over the years. Rock was a true gentleman in every sence of the word and passed his teachings on to many others through-out his life. Rest in peace Rock. Steve & Tania

Hard for me to take that the “ROCK” is no longer with us! However, he will always be in my happy thoughts, down on King Street, until I meet him again on the other side. If the World was more like he was, the world would be a much better place and not be in the condition that we find the world in today. Rocco and I had many heart-to-heart talks, after the front door was locked at La Casa. I knew that he was never truly happy, with the exception of his son David’s Graduation and wedding day. He was so very proud of David and rightfully so. He had promised me to come and visit at Predator Ridge British Columbia and I guess looking back, I thought I had more time and should’ve pressed harder to have him come. I know he would’ve enjoyed it I thought it was me that would run out of time, not him. Both Michelle and I, will miss his smiling face, his heartfelt and meaningful hugs, every time we met. My deepest condolences, to David and his wife, Nino and Dianne and Vince. My world is not the same tonight and it will probably take me some time….. To get my head around this one. Rest in peace my friend!

I was so deeply saddened to hear of Roc's passing. He was such an amazing person who truly loved life and always made those around him feel good. He could light up a room with just his smile or laugh. I was very fortunate to have gotten to know him through his mother. I will treasure the wonderful visits we had, either at his mother's or at the restaurant. My thoughts and prayers are with Maria, Nino, Linda & Vince and Jessica & David.

I was lucky to work with Rock for many years. Rock was a very kind friend, colleague, teacher, coach, and family man. Thanks for all your kindness and friendship over many years. You are sadly missed. My condolences to all you leave behind.

Rock was a man of integrity. He brought out the best in everyone around him…because he shared his passion. I had the honor of being coached by him, coaching with him, coaching against him…and playing on the same team with him. He managed to juggle coaching, playing, and family. His laugh or chuckle and his smile always made you know he truly cared about the person inside. The most amazing thing was….he ALWAYS… made you feel a part of the TEAM.

The world has lost a wonderful person. All my interactions with Rocco as University Coaches we’re all positive, respectful and competitive. I also enjoyed his company at the OSA instructors meetings. My sincere sympathy to Rocco’s family, friends and soccer companions. Former Brock University Mens Soccer Coach.

Aleck and Mary Harasym

Rock was an amazing teacher, coach, friend, father, uncle and son! His legacy will live on in the hearts of all he touched. Rock had a smile that welcomed everyone and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. His love and loyalty to family was totally inspirational. Our days at Arthur Voaden were life changing. A bond was created that made every encounter magical and electric- no matter how long it had been since we had sat together. Rock wanted his friends to join him for a true feast at the restaurant. Laughter, stories and hugs...filled the room. He will now be surrounded with love and happiness with his brother Syl, his beautiful wife, Lena, and his Dad. Please accept our deepest sympathy David, Jessica and family. You have an another angel watching over you. "When we leave this earth the love that we've given and received remains behind to light the lives of those we touched-each memory a candle burning bright. Rock's love shines on and our memories with this special man live on. Gary & Fran Wren

So saddened by the news of Rock’s passing. A great coach, teacher, mentor, friend and overall, an amazing person who had a positive impact on me and everyone that was lucky enough to know him. I first met Rock during my soccer playing days at Western. As the men's coach it was easy to see the passion he had for the program and the influence he had on his players, he was also always such a strong supporter and advocate for our women’s side. I will never forget the times we shared instructing soccer camps together and the opportunity he gave me to volunteer in his classroom early on in my teaching career. My sincerest condolences to David and the entire Basacco family. Rest in peace Rock.

My condolences go out to all the family members. I met Rock in grade nine at CCH and by the time we left high school we were good friends . I was in awe of his talents both on the field as well as at the poker table. the Fairhaven gang was very competitive in all events but nothing compared to the soccer or the tackle football with no equipment on fall Sunday mornings. Recently I would see him at La Casa where my family frequented on a regular basis or at Western Soccer practices just prior to Western Football practices. Rock, you and your brother Syl were awesome. RIP

I am truly sorry to hear of Rock's death. I have happy memories of time spent with Rocco and Syl, playing sports together, and just hanging out. Rock showed leadership as a young player, and only grew as a teacher and coach through the years. The esteem he was held in by colleagues and rivals is testament to a good man. Kingston, Ontario

I had the privilege of teaching with Roc at Arthur Voaden. His passion for education and students was obvious to all lucky enough to know him. He had such pride in his son, David, and his eyes sparkled when he shared news of him. His dedication to soccer was legendary, and reading the many tributes from former players was heartwarming. The world was a better place thanks to Roc Bassaco. Rest in peace and thank you for the honour of calling you my friend.❤

I had the privilege to be coached by Rock and also be part of his coaching staff for a number of years. Rock was a mentor, coach, friend and a great man. Your life was cut short my friend but the memories will always be with me. I will always reminisce our conversation on the bus going or coming home from games about soccer, family and life. You always had an answer my friend. Rest in peace and may God bless you. Our deepest sympathies to David and the whole Basacco family. Genti and Stephanie Dervishi

God speed you rest and to the family, comfort. I was blessed to share time in soccer & teaching with you.

My prayers and condolences to there Basacco family

My thoughts and prayers to the Basacco family. I had the privilege of playing with and coached by Roc. A complete gentleman on and off the gelid.

David and Jessica, so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

The Rock will be truly missed. A great teacher, coach and friend. So many stories and so many great times. You were an inspiration to so many. Your love for life and your love for your family were the qualities that we all admired. I send my deepest condolences to David, Maria and the whole Basacco family. I will miss my friend.

My deepest sympathy to all those grieving the loss of Coach Rocco and a thank you to coach who was very supportive towards me when I became head coach of the Men's Varsity Rugby program in 1996. I remember coach several times afterwards approaching me telling me ' let me know if I can do anything for you ' and this was his approach to life. Some of the best coaches do most of their work away from the field of play and Rocco certainly was one of those great coaches and the results speak from themselves. Great game champ and rest in peace always ! Slats [ former men's rugby coach 96 to 2002 ]

My deepest sympathies go out to David and the family on the loss of a great man. I had the privilege of coaching against Rocco for almost 2 decades at the Varsity level, and although we did not know each other outside of soccer, I had nothing but the upmost respect for this true gentlemen. His legacy as competitor is equally matched by his kindness and care for those around him. Rocco Rest In Peace Mario Halapir

Our sincere condolences to Rock’s family.

**In Loving Memory of Rock Basacco on this 24th day of December 2021** Sending prayers and love to Rock and his family........ To Rock I send Angels of love, peace and calmness today. And It fills my heart to know he is reunited with his brother Syl and father Nicola and so many more family and friends that we all have loss here on earth. To the family I send continuous prayers to literally carry them through this difficult time. There are no words to express how much my heart bleeds for your profound loss of Rock. Maybe ...as I believe...the soul still lingers and watches over all of us ... and I believe Rock’s soul is truly watching over his family and friends he cherished and loved unconditionally.... Maybe today Rock is with each and ever one of us and in all our heart' s sorrow...but also in the memory of the joy he shared with each and every one of us. My love and respect for Rock will live on and I will cherish the memories I shared with him and his amazing family and friends. Forever in my Prayers Darlyne Morlog

David and Jessica, My thoughts and prayers are with you. May all of your memories help you through this difficult time. Sincere Condolences to your and your family. Peggy

I’d like to offer my deepest condolences. He was the best soccer coach i ever had. A great man on and off the field. Everyone will remember him especially for the great smile. Rest in peace Rock.

Rock was simply and succinctly a beautiful person. His characteristics; full of love and compassion for family, friends, students and his athletes. He was a dedicated and gifted teacher and coach. As a colleague, he had my respect and trust. As a friend, I knew I felt understood and cared for. Family and friends have lost a good man, also confident that he is at home with Our Lord.

My Sincere condolences at this difficult time to David/Jessica and the Basacco family. You have lost a father, a brother, an uncle and a friend . A man that can never be replaced. I can only look back and thank him for what he did for me and my soccer carrier. What started out as my coach , became my mentor over my western years , and my friend over time. Even though we where thousands of kilometers away, we have never lost contact over the years, a humble, caring and an exceptional human being. I will greatly miss him. May he rest in peace From Saint Etienne, France Haidar A.

Our deepest condolences to the whole Basacco family. We will certainly miss his friendly smile when we go to La Casa . Rest in peace Rock. The Reichelt family

It was a pleasure teaching with Rocco. He was a positive influence at Voaden. He was loved by teachers and students alike. He treated everyone with a kind smile and always showed genuine interest in you. My condolences to his family.

My condolences to the friends and family. He taught me at Vaoden. He was a great teacher. May he rest in paradise!

Through soccer, Roc touched the lives of many Marino generations. I can’t say enough wonderful things about him. Not only was he a fantastic coach, but he was a warm, caring and empathetic soul who really valued his players as both athletes and as individuals. We are all deeply saddened by this news. Sending our love and condolences, Ali and the entire Marino/Malacaria family.

So sorry to hear of Rocco's passing. This is a great loss for all that knew him. Our condolences to the Basacco Family. We will keep them in our prayers.

Colleague,teacher, coach and friend - we had so many great times together. Rest in Peace dear Rocco, memories will keep us together. Sincere condolences to David, Jessica and family.

When I found out about this on Christmas Day from former teammates I could only think how important Rock was in my life journey and developing to be the person I am. Being a rookie in 1996 where we were provincial champions and then finishing 2nd in CIAU which was the beginning of an era of team that went on to win National Championships. Rock was the best coach that I had during my playing career. Humble, caring and an unbelievable mentor and leader. Thoughts and prayers to all his family including the Mustang Family. James - London, England

As former players at UWO Jenna and I had first hand experience and privilege to get to know Rock. He was a class act in every sense of the word. A man who was greatly respected and who made varsity sports an enjoyable experience for hundreds upon hundreds of players who were able to play for him. Rock just did things the right way. He treated us like own. He had an infectious smile and I will always look back very fondly at the time I was able to play for him and then coach alongside him for a season. He has left an incredible mark on the community of London and Jenna and I pass along our sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones.

When I was playing at Western, I had the opportunity to cross paths with Rock, somewhat briefly. While we never exchanged more than a “how’s it going,” or a shared bus ride together, it was obvious that he was a coach who cared deeply about his team. Fast forward to roughly ten years later, when our paths would cross again as Rock was asked to coach our women’s team. While we were a bit less dedicated (moms with kids) and regimented than he was used to, his passion, excitement, and (sometimes) frustration still flowed through his coaching, and he lead us to many league championships over the past few years. He had a gift for teaching, coaching, and leading those who he was asked/chose to lead, regardless of who they were. I think one of the last times I saw Rock was after a brief hiatus from the game, and in my first game back he said “Davies! Great to see you back. Glad you’re here, we missed you.” He was a kind, genuine, and generous man. While his passing comes as a shock to many of us, I know that we are all better people for having Rock in our lives, regardless of the timeframe. I hope his family is able to fine some peace in knowing how many lives he touched, and how much he gave to everyone he came in contact with. Rest in Peace, coach.

There are no words that can adequately express the love and passion that Rock had for all those he met . He always helped make others better and happier. He was a positive role model that influenced many in countless ways. You will always be remembered Your kindness and dedication will live on.

We are very saddened to hear this news. Everyone loved Roc. He always had a smile on his face and was always a pleasure to speak with. He will be missed terribly around the gym. Alex

Sorry to hear of Rocco's passing. Our condolences to the family. We will keep them in our prayers.

My deepest condolences to the entire Basacco family. He was an incredible coach and human! Years after playing for him I remember bumping into him at Brock University where I was coaching. He took the time to talk to my wife and my two girls. Truly was a great man in every sense of the world. Rest easy my friend!

So sorry to hear of Rocco’s passing. Met him a couple of times. Always greeted you with a smile. Sorry to the Basacco family for your loss.

Jessica and David, Thinking of you both and sending prayers through this difficult time. Sincere condolences for your loss of your best friend. He will be sadly missed.

Sincere condolences at this difficult time. As opposing Coaches Rocco and I met on many occasions. A great coach he always showed the utmost respect to the opposition.A real gentleman.R.I.P. Sandy Mackie Carleton University.

The world without Rock B doesn't seem real. He was such an awesome friend. The Fairhaven Gang of soccer: Rock Basacco, Syl Basacco, Dom Mescia and Rocco Mescia became one of the best teams in Canada. I'll always miss him.

It was my true pleasure working with Rock at Arthur Voaden. He greeted everyone with a smile. He always invited me into his classroom with a warm welcome. He paved the way for many students with stellar math lessons that later helped them find success in their Post Secondary studies. He was a very special man. Sending my deepest condolences. Rest In Peace Rock. ❤️

So sorry for your loss. I only met Rock a few years ago but he quickly became an important member of the small circle of friends that we enjoyed during the pandemic. He was a good man and a good friend. I will miss him terribly

Saddened by the news of Rock’s passing. He was a great teacher, coach, and friend who touched the lives of many through his kind and generous approach to life. RIP dear friend. You made a difference.

Rocco greeted everyone with a cheerful smile, a true gentleman & a good friend to many ?

So sorry to hear about Rock's passing. We had the pleasure of meeting Rock a little over a year ago, when we were introduced to him by our daughter and son-in-law. We shared some wine, laughs, and stories over the past few months. We feel blessed to have known him, if only for a short time. He was a wonderful friend to our daughter and son-in-law and will be greatly missed.

Rocco was an amazing coach and friend. He provided all of us with an amazing opportunity to learn and play the game within our community. I’ll always remember him in that role and the impact he had on me as a player and a person. His energy and enthusiasm both on and off the pitch will be missed. We are all very sorry for your loss. With love, the Zaverl’s.

David, Jessica, Nino, Linda and Vince I am devastated to hear of Rock's passing. He was a friend and mentor to so many students, soccer players, employees and customers. His engaging personality, warm smile and positive outlook on life will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May you all find comfort in the cherished memories Rock created and in the knowledge heaven will welcome him with open arms. May he rest in external peace.

David & Jessica, we are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Rocco. He has been an inspiration of courage, strength and positivity to all of us. A kind and friendly soul. We will miss the conversations. May treasured memories comfort you and all your family now and always. Rest in peace Roc.

From Ottawa, with love and affection, I’d like to offer my deepest condolences. There are few words that can effectively express wide reach Rock had, and will continue to have in his memoriam. I played for Rock from 2004-2007 at Western and feel heavily in Rock’s debt for what he did for both me as a man and the program as a family. I met him at a hard time in his life and he cleared his schedule to meet me on campus when I was down visiting from high school for a weekend. Before I was even admitted to UWO I knew that it would be important to play for Rock. He sacrificed so much for the program and we all felt he was able to give so much to us by way of his energy and passion to see young men grow up in the pitch in front of him. I’m a stronger more caring man/dad/teacher having grown up through his program at UWO and I’m certain there are hundreds of other players who’ve been supported in similar ways not at UWO and the London community who’ll always be able to look back at his impact on their lives with pride and deep appreciation. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Rest In Peace ?? With love, KW

Our hearts are heavy at the news of Roc's death. He had such a positive impact on the lives of many Londoners through teaching, soccer and his restaurants and has inspired so many young people to be their best selves.

I’m so sorry for your loss , may Rocco Rest In Peace and may God help the family get through such of difficult time ????