James "Rock" Raco

James "Rock" Raco obituary, Palm Coast, FL

James "Rock" Raco

James Raco Obituary

Published by Legacy on Jan. 12, 2026.
James Raco, affectionately known as "Rock", was born on April 11, 1945 in Carnegie, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Josephine Raco. James spent his life rooted in Pittsburgh, PA, and later enjoyed his retirement years in Palm Coast, Florida with his wife, friends and sunshine.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Raco. He was a proud and devoted father to Nicole Raco (Matt Hamilton) and Anthony Raco (Amy Raco). His greatest joy was being "Pappy" to his grandchildren: Tessa and Aurelia as well as Mia, Khloe, and Easton, who brought him endless pride and happiness.

He is also survived by his brothers, David Raco (Kathy) and Kenneth Raco (Marian), and was preceded in death by his sister Janet Raco. James leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews: Dave (Jackie Raco), Lisa (Scott Decker), Alexis (Chris Adkins). and Aaron (Sarah Raco).

James honorably served his country in the United States Air Force and was an active member of the Vietnam War. His service was a source of great pride and reflected his lifelong sense of duty and commitment.

His career as a baker with friends and family with friends and family at Primo's Franklin Bakery, and Life Insurance Investor were primed with making sure families were happy, secure, and attended to, to say the least. His motto always was and is "Adapt and Overcome".

In his free time, James enjoyed golfing, riding motorcycles, spending time at various restaurants, and most of all, being with family and friends – especially spending time with his grandchildren. He was an active member of the Daytona Beach HOG Chapter, where he proudly served as a membership officer. James also gave back to his community by volunteering at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, a place that held special meaning to him.

James will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Pittsburgh where a ceremony is to be held at a later date.

He will be remembered for his love for family, his patriotism, his loyalty to friends, his devotion to helping anyone in need, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind. Ride High Rock (Dad) and Ti' Amo.

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