Ralph Christopher Rozzi

Ralph Christopher Rozzi, 66, of Rochester, NY passed away on March 16, 2026 after a short illness. Chris was born in Rochester on July 20, 1959 to Ralph and Muriel (Rose) Rozzi. He is survived by his loving partner of 26 years, David Rich, brother John Rozzi of Bearsville NY, in-laws Dave and Cindy Rich, Christopher (Kristen) Rich, Alia (Olsen) Betron, nephews Kaleb, Elliott, Isaiah, Damien, and Sawyer, his dog Kai, and many friends. He is predeceased by his parents and his sister, Renee. Chris was a cherished and adored son, brother, partner, uncle, and friend.

Chris graduated from Sperry High School in 1977 and attended Nazareth College. He was self-employed as a bookseller, doing business as Rose Mountain Books for most of his career. His extensive knowledge made him highly regarded and sought after not only as a book dealer but as a resource for others. Chris loved books and considered himself fortunate to make a living doing what he loved.

He enjoyed spending time with friends, bowling, playing cards, shooting darts, watching Buffalo Sabres hockey, old game shows and classic Sci-Fi movies. He would gladly give an evening to a friend, whether to share a drink and conversation while watching the sunlight dazzle through the trees, or with music adding an excellent addition to the magic of the moment.

Those who knew Chris (or “Roz” as he was affectionately called) can attest to his strength of character. Chris was admired above all else for his humility, his integrity, honesty, and for his compassion and tenderness. He valued the lessons of history, literature, music, art, philosophy, the sciences, sport, and culture. Knowledge and experience, not just for the sake of having it, but because he saw what it all together represented: the strange beauty of this Life, this World, this Universe. He saw with a gentle certainty that it all matters.

Thank you, Chris — for sharing the gift of you with so many of us.