Rocco Adriatico, age 83, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 17, 2019.  Born in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of Giovanni and Beatrice (Mosceri) Adriatico.

Rocco was a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls and attended local schools.  He married Leonina "Lee" (Faiola) Adriatico on July 6, 1963 at Prince of Peace Church.  Mr. Adriatico received a bachelor's degree in Education in 1959 from the University of Montana, a master's degree in Education from Niagara University in 1964, and a special education certification from the University at Buffalo.  Rocco began his lifelong career as an educator as a substitute teacher for the Niagara Falls school district.  He continued teaching math for Lewiston-Porter and coached cross country and track.  Rocco also introduced the bowling program at Lewiston-Porter.  After thirty-two years of teaching he retired from BOCES in 1991 as a Special Education teacher.  Rocco enjoyed bowling, golf, bocce and spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife of fifty-five years, Rocco is survived by his beloved children, John Leo (Elizabeth) Adriatico, Michael (Margaret) Adriatico and Maria (Luke Kieffer) Zurat; and grandchildren, Nicholas (Victoria) and Jaclyn Adriatico, Madison Gerber, Jacob, Cameron and Alexis Zurat;his brother-in-law, Jack Faiola and sister-in-law, Amelia Cosentino. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.  Mr. Adriatico was predeceased by his brother and sister, the late Joseph (Dolores "Dee" of Lewiston) Adriatico and the late Beatrice (late Agatino) Licata.

Rocco's family will receive family and friends on Thursday, February 21 ^st at 9:15 A.M. at Holy Family Parish at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 27 ^th Street and Independence Avenue, Niagara Falls.  A Memorial Mass in his honor will follow at 10:00 A.M.  Memorials can be made to Niagara Hospice.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.