NORWICH – Roscoe A. (Rocky) Nuzzolese, 77, a life long resident of both Oxford and Norwich passed away Wednesday, November 5, 2014, in Norwich, NY with his children by his side.
Rocky was born on June 26, 1937 in Norwich the son of Joseph and Irene (Brooker) Nuzzolese Reger. He attended the Norwich schools where he was a member of the football team and graduated with the class of 1956. Following graduation, Rocky entered the United States Army serving his country while stationed in Germany from 1956-1958. Returning home after his service, he gained employment with the Norwich Pharmacal Co. where he worked in the distribution area for 37 years, retiring in 1997.
Rocky is probably best remembered on the pitching mound, for Norwich Shoe in the “fast pitch” Chenango Valley Softball League (CVSL). Rocky was mentioned in a 1993 Sports Illustrated article, “My Kind of Town,” by Steve Wulf. “Norwich Shoe, in particular, had a great team because of its fireballing fireplug of a pitcher, Rocky Nuzzolese.” Wulf wrote. “Nobody knocked the Rock. I can still see him flicking the ball against his thigh, sending another unseen strike past the batter.” Rocky was also an avid bowler for many years with the Norwich Pharmacal League, and also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cards.
Rocky spent many years enjoying his grandchildren’s sporting events from youth to college which included baseball, basketball, softball, field hockey, and football games. Once Rocky retired he spent many days with his youngest granddaughter Logan, babysitting, going for walks, fishing, and teaching her to ride a bike.
Rocky is survived by his children Robert Nuzzolese, Therese (Bradley)Aldrich of Oxford, his grandchildren Brooke (Mario) Fontana of Lawrence, KS, Bradley Aldrich II and fiancé Cassandra Maxam of Norwich, Logan Nuzzolese of Oxford, and a great granddaughter Addison Fontana of Lawrence, KS. Also surviving is a sister, Mary Demeree of South New Berlin, and brothers, Daryl (Sue) Lawson, and Lorence (Patricia) Lawson of Norwich, the mother of his children Sally Horton Nuzzolese of Oxford along with several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Rocky was predeceased by his parents Joseph Nuzzolese, Irene (Conrad) Reger, and brother-in-law Harry Demeree.
A private memorial service for Rocky will be held at a later date. Interment will be in the Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Please consider memorial contributions to the Oxford Emergency Squad, PO Box 570, Oxford, NY 13830.
Arrangements are by the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home.