Rocco Robert "Bobby" Lauria

1934 - 2018

Lauria, Rocco Robert "Bobby" Born 4/7/1934 on Milwaukee's south side and died 9/28/2018 in Waterford, WI. Rocco passed quietly in the early morning hours of September 28th with Lois his wife of 61 years alongside him. Playing softly in the background was the music of the 'Rat Pack' and Dad definitely 'did it his way'. He is survived by his wife Lois(Nee Theys); 6 daughters, Veronica(Robbie), Lisa(David), Kim(Ron), Chris Ann(Tim), Andrea(Marcus), Ann Marie(Al); son-in-law Dave Banta. Proud and loving grandpa of 12 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Further survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family. Born of humble beginnings during the depression, Dad learned the value of a dollar and a strong work ethic. Those lessons stayed with him for a lifetime and passed those values along to his children. Dad was a machinist and tool and die maker serving his apprenticeship at Rexnord; working at Pabst, Delco, American Can plant and Milwaukee Electric Tool. He proudly machined parts that went into outer space. He, along with Mom, opened their own business in the mid 60's, "Rocky's Bar", on the south side of Milwaukee where many lifelong friendships were forged. Then, in 1974, they purchased a hobby farm in Waterford, WI, which brought years of enjoyment, happy times and treasured memories for the whole Lauria family. He was affectionately referred to as the "Energizer Bunny" and that he had 'ants in his pants' never one to sit idle. In later years they moved to Brown's Lake, Burlington. Mom and Dad spent their retirement years traveling, cruising and junkets to casinos. He was extremely proud of his Italian heritage. Dad served as a sergeant in the US Army. He was a member of the Tichigan Lake Lion's Club, Knight's of Columbus and a long time member of St. Thomas Aquinas Waterford where many volunteer hours were given. Dad was an avid Packers and Brewers fan. He left this world knowing just the previous evening that the Brewers made it to the playoffs. While dad never saw combat while serving, he spent the last 20 years in a fierce fight with MDS and leukemia. He never gave up even in the end. A visitation will be held Saturday from 8:30-9:45AM at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 305 S. 1st St. Waterford, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Rocco's name may be made to the family, The Fischer House Wisconsin, 5000 W. National Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53295, or St. Thomas Aquinas Parish. Rocco's family would like to thank the staffs of Elder Care Cottages and the Milwaukee VA Medical Center for their extraordinary care and kindness.