John Rocco DeChellis

John Rocco DeChellis obituary, Monaca, PA

John Rocco DeChellis

John DeChellis Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services - Monaca on Feb. 5, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

John Rocco 'Dee' DeChellis, 76 passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at his residence in Rochester Township. Born on March 9, 1948, in Rochester, Pennsylvania, John's life was marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, and a passion for community involvement.
John's early years were spent in the close-knit community of Monaca where he was raised by his late parents, Fiore and Mary (Carducci) DeChellis. He was a proud 1966 graduate of Monaca High School, where he showcased his athletic spirit on the football field. His academic journey continued as he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and an MBA from Robert Morris University, equipping him with the knowledge and skills that would define his professional path.
In 1967, John married his high school sweetheart, Shirley J. Witherow DeChellis, and together they embarked on a 51-year journey of love and partnership until her passing on October 14, 2018. John was also preceded in death by his sister, Rita Binkoski.
John's commitment to his country was evident when, in 1968, he entered the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Serving abroad as a sergeant, he displayed leadership and courage, qualities that would later influence his civilian career as a Superintendent at Horsehead Corporation.
A man of faith, John was a member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Rochester.
John's pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving daughter and son-in-law, Melissa 'Missie' (Marvin) Leonard of Enon Valley, and his son and daughter-in-law, Jon-Paul (Karen) DeChellis of Spring Hill, Tennessee. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Antonio DeChellis of Oxford, Mississippi, Gianna and Natalia DeChellis of Spring Hill, Tennessee, and his grand dogs, Abby and Jax and several family members.
An active figure in youth sports, John coached football, baseball, and basketball in Rochester, endearing himself to many young athletes and their families. Known as 'Chef Pappy,' he found joy in cooking and baking, delighting those around him with his culinary creations. His love for M&M candies was well-known, as was his enjoyment of travel, with many cherished trips to Florida, the Bahamas, Las Vegas and New Orleans with family and close friends.
John was a man who took pride in the meticulous care of his lawn, the serene beauty of sunsets, and the warmth of gatherings with loved ones.
Friends will be received on Sunday, February 9th from noon – 2 pm and 3-5 pm at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, where parting prayers will be offered on Monday at 9:15 am followed by a mass of Christian burial at 10 am at St Cecilia Catholic Church, Rochester. Burial will follow at 2 pm at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.
The family has suggested in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made, if desired in John's memory to Tunnel To Towers Foundation or the Wounded Warriors Project.
To share online condolences, view John's video tribute, add photos or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfunerahome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign John DeChellis's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 7, 2025

Love, Dawn and Mike sent flowers.

February 5, 2025

Lucille Bruno posted to the memorial.

February 5, 2025

Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services - Monaca posted an obituary.

2 Entries

Comfort Planter

Love, Dawn and Mike

Sent Flowers

Lucille Bruno

February 5, 2025

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services - Monaca

1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, PA 15061

Make a Donation
in John DeChellis's name

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John DeChellis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign John DeChellis's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 7, 2025

Love, Dawn and Mike sent flowers.

February 5, 2025

Lucille Bruno posted to the memorial.

February 5, 2025

Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services - Monaca posted an obituary.