Rocco Terriaca

1951 - 2026

Rocco Terriaca
1951 - 2026
Rocco Terriaca, 75, passed peacefully on January 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Dolores; his children, Christina (Ken) Dunaj and James (Shannon) Terriaca; his four beloved grandchildren, Nadia, Katrina, Charles, and Boden; his mother, Addolorata Terriaca, and his sister, Maria (Antonio) Cuccovia. Rocco was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who faced life's challenges with strength and determination, instilling in his children enduring values of perseverance, integrity, and compassion. His memory will live on through many close family members, including Rocco (Connie) DeCesare, Felix (Melinda) DeCesare, Nick (Joanne) DeCesare, Tony DeCesare, Maria (Salvatore) DeCesare, John (Nancy) DeCesare, and Gino (Rosa) DeCesare; his Aunt Rosa (Joe) Verdile; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Born in Macchiagodena, Italy, Rocco was the son of Addolorata Terriaca and the late Gennaro Terriaca. At sixteen, he immigrated to the United States in search of a better life, and settled in Springfield, Massachusetts. From the moment he arrived, he developed a deep love for America. Rocco took great pride in both his American Citizenship and the Italian heritage and traditions that shaped him.
Rocco was a gifted problem solver with a knack for mechanics and engineering. After honing his skills through a series of jobs, he worked for the City of Springfield and later at Western Massachusetts Electric Company. His career reflected years of skilled perseverance and pride in an honest day's work. He seldom missed a day of work and set the same priority to ensuring his presence at his children's sporting events, arts performances, and activities. Faithfulness, devotion, and presence defined him-he was, in every sense, a loving husband and family man. He cherished telling stories of his childhood growing up on a farm in Italy-stories of hard work, simple routines, and a life grounded in family and the land. Those memories connected generations and kept the past alive. Rocco also traveled extensively throughout the United States with his children, fostering in them an appreciation for the country and the belief in opportunity for all. Beyond his work, Rocco enjoyed bowling, soccer, and his weekly card game with friends.
A natural mentor, Rocco was someone people were drawn to. He was a popular
soccer coach, respected for his patience and encouragement, and he possessed a surprising musical talent-an uncanny ear for pitch.
At age forty-four, Rocco was in an accident, which left him paralyzed and without mobility of his limbs. Despite this life-altering event and the challenges it precipitated, he lived with remarkable purpose, creativity, and determination. Rocco's perseverance and resilience were a source of inspiration to all who knew him. He remained actively engaged in property management and oversaw multiple renovation projects, demonstrating his enduring commitment to an honest and productive day's work.
Later in life, he enjoyed traveling and cruising and eventually made his home with his wife in Orlando, Florida. He found great joy in gardening, cultivating a wide variety of flowers, fruit plants, and trees. His yard became a point of pride and was affectionately known by neighbors as the "Garden of Eden." Rocco enjoyed sharing stories about his projects and hobbies and continued to mentor family and friends, offering thoughtful guidance and practical solutions marked by care and precision.
A man of vision, Rocco was often a step ahead - rarely discouraged, and willing to take
calculated risks. He was patient, kind, and deeply understanding, with an ability to connect easily with others. Many sought his advice and valued his insight. Even through pain and illness, he maintained his sense of humor and was well known for his love of poker, often joking with his opponents, "Gimme the money."
Above all, Rocco believed in the power of family and to living life fully. His disability never defined him-his strength, generosity, and enduring spirit did. His loss is immeasurable, but so is the love he left behind.
Calling hours for Rocco will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 from 4-7PM at Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 North Main St. East Longmeadow MA. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 24th beginning at 8:45AM from the funeral home with a Liturgy of Christian Burial, to be celebrated at 10AM, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 123 William St., Springfield, MA, followed by entombment in St. Michael the Archangel Mausoleum, St. Michael's Cemetery, 1601 State St., Springfield, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rocco's honor may be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Springfield, MA. For online condolences please visit www.forastiere.com.