Lewis "Babe" Rotella
Prominent Business Owner & Former Politician

Lewis "Babe" Rotella, 73, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 29, 1942 in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Dominic and Margaret (Gravanti) Rotella. He married the former Marjorie Bagocus on August 12, 1969.

Lewis, known to all as "Babe," was the former owner of Niagara Ambulance Service and partner of Frontier Ambulance Service. He remained employed by Rural Metro Medical Service until his retirement. In addition he was an owner and partner of several bars and restaurants over the years including The Tree House, Images, Babe's and Extra Innings.

Mr. Rotella was a former City of Niagara Falls councilman and remained active in political affairs. He was a member of the ISDA Cataract Lodge 240, Civil Service Commission; a former member of the NYS Boxing Commission, the NYS Regional EMS Board and also a member of the National Army Guard until his honorable discharge in 1965. Babe was also a longtime member of St. Mary of the Cataract Church in Niagara Falls, NY.

In addition to his wife of 46 years, he is survived by his three daughters, Michelle Rotella (Robert Filighera) of Niagara Falls, NY, Toni-Marie Rotella of North Tonawanda, NY, Jennifer (Jeremy) Pullano of Grand Island, NY; three grandchildren Nina Grace Havens, Anna Sophia Pullano and Dominic John Pullano. Babe is also survived by his aunts, uncles, nephews, cousins and many good friends. He was predeceased by one sister, Donna.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 5th from 5 – 8 P.M. and Friday, November 6th from 3 – 8 P.M. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will begin Saturday, November 7th at 9:15 A.M. followed by a Mass of Chrisitan Burial at 10:00 A.M. in St. Mary of the Cataract Church, 259 4th Street, Niagara Falls, NY. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, NY 14240.