Rocco Gelsomino

Rocco J. Gelsomino, 87, of Girard, passed away on June 28th in his home. Rocco was born August 26th, 1932 in Girard, the youngest son of the late Ercole and Filomena Cardiero Gelsomino. He was a 1950 graduate of Girard High School. Rocco retired from Girard City Water Department in 1990, as a water assistance maintenance man and had previously worked for US Steel, Erie Railroad Company, and Ohio Chair Company. He was a veteran, having served 4 years in the Navy (1951-1955) as an aviation structural mechanic 2nd class. Always the hard worker, Rocco continued to work for his family’s grocery store, Niles Sparkle Market, until the ripe age of 82. He was a member of the IFH, Eagles, Italian American Vets, and K of C. His hobbies included bowling at Kay Lanes for over 40 years, politics- as a proud lifelong member of the Democratic Party, golfing, playing softball for the IFH, and eating at his long-standing favorite restaurant Station Square. He leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Roselyn Kelly and Anthony Gelsomino, his grandchildren whom he lovingly raised as his own children, Tabitha Goist of Warren, and Lawrence Goist of Girard. He was preceded in death by his daughter Shawna Gelsomino Carney, his sister Nilda Carusone, and his brothers- Anthony and Peter Gelsomino. At Rocco’s request, no services will be held and memorial donations may be made to MVI Hospice 4891 Belmont Ave. Youngstown, Ohio 44505. Professional arrangements were handled by Blackstone Funeral Home. Condolences to the family may be sent to 129 Smithsonian St. Girard, Ohio 44420.