Rocco Anthony Strazza

Rocco Anthony Strazza Jr., 68, of New Milford, CT, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on February 4, 1958, in Greenwich, Connecticut, to the late Rocco Anthony Strazza and Lillian Vivian Strazza (Bianco).

Rocco grew up in Greenwich, playing in the neighborhood with his siblings, cousins, and friends. He was full of energy and curiosity and, by his own admission, even got himself into a little trouble here and there. He was a boxer in his youth and carried that same drive into everything he did, becoming a hard worker and a devoted, loving father and grandfather. His kind heart and outgoing nature made him unforgettable to all who knew him.

A generous man, Rocco would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need and had a gift for making friends wherever he went. His loud, infectious laugh could fill a room, and his jokes always left people smiling.

He loved the simple joys in life like riding his motorcycle, debating politics, playing poker, and enjoying great Italian food. In recent years, he discovered a love for cooking for those he cared about. He especially enjoyed visiting his sister Nancy in Savannah, Georgia, and spending time with his six grandchildren. Rocco loved cheering them on at games, shows, and school activities, often whistling loudly from the sidelines. He also cherished FaceTime conversations with his daughter and proudly watched his son open Rocco's Roadside.

Rocco is survived by his children, Tiffany Zavitz and Rocco Strazza; his sister, Nancy (David) Van Gorp; his brother, Joseph (Cheryl) Strazza; his son-in-law, Jono Zavitz; his daughter-in-law, Stephanie Ruttkamp; and his grandchildren, JJ, Jase, Zoë, RJ, Grayson, and Melina, who brought immense joy to his life. He also leaves his aunts, Jean (Richard) Nutbrown, Judy (Joseph) Bianco, Helen (Frank) Strazza and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Josephine (Carl) Matulis, and his brother, Salvatore (Robin) Strazza.

Rocco also leaves behind his beloved dog, Vinny, who was always by his side. It wasn't unusual to hear Rocco loudly calling out "Vinny!" to make sure his loyal companion was never too far away.

He lived life unapologetically on his own terms. A man of strong faith who loved Jesus, he often encouraged those around him to love others reminding us, even at the very end, that love is all we truly need.

Rocco will be remembered for his generosity, bold personality, infectious laugh, and the deep love he had for his family. Though he may be gone from our world, the stories, laughter, and memories he created will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. And in the quiet moments, when we pick up the phone or think of him, we will hear his voice one last time, ending every conversation with his signature words, "Very good," a way of never saying goodbye, reminding us that he is always with us.

As per Rocco's wishes, a celebration of life will be held this summer. More information will be shared at a later date.

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