Rocco LaTorre

Rocco LaTorre, age 94, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Beloved husband of Mary Lou for 46 wonderful years, Rocco was a man whose life was defined by love, hard work, and the deep connections he made with everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Rocco's early childhood took him across the ocean to Sicily, where he lived until the age of 18. Following the encouragement of his father, Bartolo, he returned to America to build a new life. In those early years, he found support and friendship while boarding with the Culcasi, Agosta, and Grammatico families-bonds that remained dear to him throughout his life.
Rocco worked for Detroit Edison for over 43 years, a career marked by dedication and integrity. He never slowed down. For 70 years, he took great pride in managing his beloved tree farm in South Boardman. In fact, his commitment to the land was so strong that Mary Lou had to change their original wedding date because it conflicted with pruning season-a story that has been lovingly retold by family for years.
A man of faith and community, Rocco was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Michael Catholic Church, as well as the Conca D'Oro Club, The Maria Santissima di Custonaci Club, and the San Vito Club. His devotion to family, friends, and his Sicilian heritage was evident in every facet of his life.
A gifted gardener, Rocco was especially known for growing the best tomatoes-an accomplishment that earned him well-deserved praise from friends, family, and neighbors alike. His garden was a true reflection of the care and attention he gave to everything and everyone in his life.
Rocco was the cherished brother of the late Rosaria (the late Filippo) Minaudo, Lena (the late Giuseppe) Santoro, Tony (Bonnie) LaTorre, and the late Paul (Sandy) LaTorre. He was a beloved brother-in-law to the late Fr. Joseph Femminineo, the late Dr. Anthony (the late Alice) Femminineo, Catherine (the late Alex) Napolitano, and Shirley (Don) Sundstrum. He is deeply loved and will be dearly missed by his many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and countless friends.
Rocco's warm heart, ready smile, and gentle humor made him a true friend to all. His kindness and generosity left an imprint on everyone he met. To know Rocco was to love him, and he will be remembered always with great affection and gratitude.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 3pm to 8pm with a 7pm Scripture Service at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, 13650 Fifteen Mile Road in Sterling Heights. Rocco will lie in state on Monday at 9am until the time of a Funeral Mass at 9:30am at St. Michael Catholic Church, 40501 Hayes Road in Sterling Heights. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township.
In honoring Rocco's memory, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, and the joy of family and friends.