Alfredo Rottaris, 94, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on November 20, 2022 at Elderwood at Wheatfield.  Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, he was the son of the late Pietro and Santa (Chiesa) Rottaris.

The start of the Great Depression spurred his family to move back to their original home in Northern Italy when Alfredo was still an infant.  He grew up in the region of Friuli, and having survived the ravages of war-torn Europe, he joined the Italian Army in 1949, serving in its elite Alipini (Alpine) Division.  In 1951, he returned to Canada.  In 1953, he moved to Detroit, MI, where he learned his trade as a bricklayer.   On September 4, 1954, he married Deianice 'Dejanice' (Castrodale) Rottaris in Hamilton, Ontario.  Mrs. Rottaris predeceased him on September 13, 2018.  The family relocated to Niagara Falls, NY in 1955.

Alfredo was employed as a Bricklayer with Local No. 2 (later Local No. 45) in Niagara Falls and Buffalo for over 40 years, retiring in 1995.  He also served as a union officer for much of that time and was well know for his work ethic and craftsmanship, as many buildings in Western New York bear his handiwork.

Alfredo had a deep passion and loyalty for the Cristoforo Colombo Society, where he became a member in 1967.  He served in nearly every elective position there for over 35 years, including two terms as president in the mid 1990's.  He devoted countless hours of service to the society, chairing many events and generously donating his time and capacity whenever he could.  Alfredo had a great passion for gardening and loved watching the Buffalo Bills.  Above all, he cherished his family, especially his beloved wife, children and grandchildren.

Alfredo is survived by his children, Albert (Barbara) Rottaris and John (Robin) Rottaris; his grandchildren, Matthew J. Rottaris and Juliana S. Rottaris; his brothers in law, Lio (late Lorraine) Castrodale, Filipio (Gloria) Castrodale, and Dr. Joseph (Penelope) Castrodale, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his wife of 64 years, he was predeceased by his sisters, Avelia (late Placido) Matteazzi, and Elodia (late Romeo) Chiesa.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 22 from 3 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will begin on Wednesday at 11:15 AM followed by Alfredo's Mass of Christian Burial at 12 PM Holy Family Parish at Mt. Carmel Church, 27 ^th and Independence Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301.  Entombment at St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to a charity of one's choice.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.