Rocco J. Gelsomino 1932-2020

Rocco was born Aug. 26, 1932, in Girard, the youngest son of the late Ercole and Filomena Cardiero Gelsomino.

He was a 1950 graduate of Girard High School.

Rocco retired from Girard City Water Department in 1990 as a water assistance maintenance man and had previously worked for US Steel, Erie Railroad Company and Ohio Chair Company.

He was a veteran, having served four years in the Navy (1951-1955) as an aviation structural mechanic, second class.

Always the hard worker, Rocco continued to work for his family’s grocery store, Niles Sparkle Market, until the ripe age of 82.

He was a member of the IFH, Eagles, Italian American Vets and K of C. His hobbies included bowling at Kay Lanes for more than 40 years, politics (as a proud lifelong member of the Democratic Party), golfing, playing softball for the IFH, and eating at his long-standing favorite restaurant, Station Square.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Roselyn Kelly and Anthony Gelsomino, and his grandchildren, whom he lovingly raised as his own children, Tabitha Goist of Warren and Lawrence Goist of Girard.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Shawna Gelsomino Carney; his sister, Nilda Carusone; and his brothers, Anthony and Peter Gelsomino.

At Rocco’s request, no services will be held. Memorial donations may be made to MVI Hospice, 4891 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH 44505.

Professional arrangements were handled by Blackstone Funeral Home. Condolences to the family may be sent to 129 Smithsonian St., Girard, OH 44420. Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary.

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