Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, New York, Rome, NY (2026)

01/16/2026

Frank Mellace

Frank Mellace, 93, of Rome, New York, passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness. He was born on October 6, 1932, in Squillace, Italy, to Antonio and Anna Mellace.

On November 8, 1953, Frank married the love of his life, Raffaela Mungo. They shared 68 devoted years of marriage until her passing on September 18, 2021. Together, they immigrated to the United States in 1962 with their three young children and later welcomed four more. They made their home in Rome, New York, building a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work, and proudly became naturalized citizens in 1974.

In 1972, Frank and Raffaela opened Mellace's Produce in Rome, New York, an endeavor they operated side-by-side until 1994. Ever dedicated and industrious, Frank later relocated the business to Boonville. Frank loved the Boonville community, and they likewise held him in high regard because of his kindness, generosity, and constant goodwill. His compassion and good humor - he was often heard whistling a cheerful tune - made each visit to his store memorable, and his customers often left with a little something extra free of charge given from his heart. His beautiful flowers in the spring, bright pumpkins in the fall, and handmade Christmas wreaths were local favorites. His work was his passion, and it sustained and fulfilled him throughout his life. So, it was not surprising that he continued to work full-time at the store right up until the time of his death.

Frank was a man of many talents. He was a gifted singer with a rich voice reminiscent of Dean Martin. He loved to make wine, and one year won a first prize blue ribbon at the NY State Fair. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and a passionate car enthusiast who collected many antique vehicles through the years which he took great pride in driving and displaying. Frank was also an exceptional storyteller. He could captivate a room and fill it with laughter sharing stories from his life over a glass of homemade wine, or a plate of Raffaela's delicious food.

Frank cherished his family deeply, and he would quietly express his love through simple, yet thoughtful acts like secretly leaving flowers or fresh produce on his children's doorsteps in the early morning hours. Although Frank's formal education ended around the eighth grade, he instilled in his children the importance of education. hard work, and perseverance. All of them went on to earn advanced degrees or become successful business owners-accomplishments that filled him with immense pride.

Frank was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife, Raffaela; a sister; Anna Commodaro, a brother, Anthony "Toto" Mellace, his sister-in-law, Concetta (Gregory) Griffo, his daughter in law, Brenda Mellace; and a beloved nephew, Mattia Mellace.

He is survived by a brother, Agazio (Kati) Mellace; a sister, Carmen (Gabrielle) Mangione; his seven children, Fr. Anthony Mellace of Curitiba, Brazil; Anna M. (Joseph) Pasqualetti of Rome, Angela (Edward) Curry of Spring Hill, TN, Frank (Wendy) Mellace Jr. of Rome, Gino (Joelle) Mellace of Rome, Joseph (Amy) Mellace of Rome, and Michael (Rebecca) Mellace of Rome. He is also survived by his twenty-four grandchildren: Gerald (Renee) Pasqualetti, Melissa (Michael) Servello, Joseph Pasqualetti, III, Kathleen (Chase) Jennings, Kristin (Willis) Somervell, Joseph (Kristen) Curry, Jennifer (Alessandro Franchi) Mellace, Frank (Molly) Mellace, Michael Mellace, Anna (Twinadri) Anggaputra, Olivia (Steven) Honeck, Taylor (Adam) Chmielewski, Nicholas Urtz, Gino Mellace, Nickolas Mellace, Joseph Mellace Jr., Sophia Mellace, Andrew Mellace, Isaiah Mellace, Amanuel Mellace, Noah Mellace, and Franceska, Michael, and Mark; as well as twenty-two great-grandchildren, and several nephews all of whom will carry forward his legacy of love, generosity, and joy.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Frank's special friend, Ruth Mortis, whose kindness, loyalty, and dedication meant so much to him. After the passing of his wife, Ruth provided companionship and support, helping to care for Frank and assisting with his business.

Frank will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many members of the Rome and Boonville communities whose lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to call at Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome on Monday, January 19, 2026, between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Church in Rome, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donation to the Abraham House may be made in Frank's name.

Please offer online condolences at:www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Frank Mellace's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/15/2026

James Morrell

Our dear Father and Pappie, James "Jimmy" W. Morrell, 81 of Rome, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse NY, surrounded by his loving family.

Jimmy was born on March 16, 1944, the son of Elizabeth "Betty" Malone and Frances "Buster" Morrell. On June 2, 1962, Jim was united in marriage to Margaret Hall, and they were married for 61 years until her untimely passing in April 2024. Jim was a dedicated employee at Rome Strip Steel for 42 years, but his true passion laid doing excavation work in the surrounding area for many years. Jimmy was a social butterfly and could strike up a conversation and make friends with anyone. He was the definition of a true family man and always put his family first, never missing any of his grandchildren's events. He taught us all the value of hard work, kindness, and dedication to family, leaving an indelible mark on our lives. Jim enjoyed going on motorcycle rides, fishing in Oneida Lake, snowmobiling, buying, and selling things, working in his garage while listening to his oldie's music, driving around in his coupe, telling his favorite stories over and over, and loved dinners together with his family.

Jim is survived by his loving daughter, Roberta "Bobbi" (Ronald) Striker of Lee Center, grandchildren Sierra (James) Chubbuck, Lindsey (Daniel) Hale, James (Tiana Martinez) Striker, great-granddaughter, Mavi Hale, Deniece (Gary) Zeller who was like another daughter to him, his longtime friend Billy, fur baby Mylo, along with several nieces and nephews who he loved dearly. He was predeceased by his loving Wife, Margaret, Brother Jack, and Sister Sue.

Funeral services will be private.

Arrangements are entrusted to Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome, NY.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View James Morrell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

William J. Dibble

William “Bill” J. Dibble, age 89, of the Town of Western, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at Rome Health, with his loving family at his bedside.

Bill was born in Trout River, NY on November 9, 1936, to the late William and Margaret Hunt Dibble. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and was honorable discharged in 1957. It would only be a few years later, in 1960, when he would be united in marriage to the love of his life and best friend, the former Shirley Johnson. Early in his career, Bill worked at the Rome Fish Hatchery for a short time and then went on to Revere Copper Products where he would eventually retire from.

Bill was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. One hunting season, he got two 10-point bucks; one with a rifle and the other with a muzzleloader. He played baseball and horseshoes and was a lifetime member of the Westernville Legion where he served as commander and was also a member of the Western Fire Department.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Shirley; his daughter, Debbie Dibble; his sons, Monty (Terri) Dibble, and Bill (Renee) Dibble; six grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; his sister, Gracie Phetterplace; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, James, William Arthur, Bob, Earl, and Walt Dibble.

Bill’s funeral service will be held on Friday, January 16, at 1:00PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. Military honors will be rendered at the conclusion of the service. He will be laid to rest in Westernville Cemetery on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 11:00AM.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Friday from 11:00AM - 1:00PM, prior to the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Westernville Fire Department, PO Box 17, 9305 State Route 46, Westernville, NY 13486 or to the Westernville American Legion, 9379 State Route 46, Westernville, NY 13486.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, Nick Iselo, Marty Ciaccia & Kevin Barry, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View William J. Dibble's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

John Michael Maksymczuk

John Michael Maksymczuk, 79 entered into heaven on January 7, 2026, reuniting with the love of his life, Carole.

John was born in Rome on May 25, 1946, to the late Alex and Mary Michaniw Maksymczuk, and graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1964. He began his career at Revere Copper and Brass until enlisting in the United States Navy on March 1, 1964, and was a DJ while stationed in Navsta Argentina, New Foundland. He was honorably discharged after three years, earning the rank of E-3. John returned home and resumed working at Revere where he completed the Electrical Apprentice Program. As an electrician John also worked for Miller Brewing Company, Bartell Machinery, and retired from Griffiss Air Force Base. On July 25, 1970, he was united in marriage to the former Carole May Flanders; a blessed union over 54 years until her passing on October 24, 2024.

John was an avid hunter which took him on many adventures in and around Lee Center with his lifelong friend, Dave Vernold. There were also many cross-country road trips with Paul Gatley to hunt in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, South Dakota, and New Foundland. But nothing made John smile more than being on his John Deere tractor mowing the lawn, grilling, and enjoying some relaxation after a busy workday. Most of all he cherished his wife of 54 years, Carole, and was happiest at home entertaining family and friends.

John was a proud Life Member of the Lee Legion, Post 1794, Point Rock Fish and Game Club, The Elks Club, and a member and volunteer with the Roman Runners.

John is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Jim Salmon; sister-in-law, Cyndi Flanders; brothers-in-law, Robert (Kathy) Flanders and Steve (Jacque) Flanders; and his beloved niece and nephew, Mary Beth (Clayton) Bartholme; and nephews, Adrian Flanders, Robert Flanders, James (Christine) Flanders, Eric (Marley) Flanders, and Aubrey Flanders. John was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Alex “Sonny” and Patricia (Flynn) Maksymczuk, and nephew, Christopher Flanders.

The family would like to extend a very heartfelt and special thank you to Cyndi Flanders and Paul Gatley for all of their love, compassion, and helpful deeds in caring for John.

John’s Celebration of Life with military honors will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 12:00NOON, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055. Spring burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects at the funeral home on Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 10:00AM - 12:00NOON, prior to the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105-9959 and/or a charity of one’s choice.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, Nick Iselo, Marty Ciaccia and Kevin Barry, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View John Michael Maksymczuk's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

Paul E. Rebe

Paul E. Rebe, age 74, of Lee Center, NY, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, January 3, 2026, at SUNY University Medical Center in Syracuse.

Paul was born in Ava, New York, to Sarah and Theodore Rebe on October 9, 1951.

Paul was passionately curious and adventurous; those characteristics shaped his journey through life. After graduating from Adirondack High School, Paul joined the US Navy. After the Navy, he went to SUNY Oswego, where he obtained a bachelor's degree in chemistry and met his wife, Karen.

Driven and hardworking, Paul had a successful 30-year career with Parker Hannifin as an engineering manager and chemical engineer. He held five patents and advised on projects in different parts of the world.

Paul often said that his most fantastic adventure and achievement was his family. He is survived and missed by his wife, Karen (née Goetz) of 45 years, and their three children, Stephanie Thornton (Stephen), Justin Rebe (Caitlin), and Jessica Chamberlin (Corey), and six grandchildren.

Always with a booming laugh and a big smile, Paul would share stories of his adventures and life over coffee, cards, or a round of golf. Many of his favorites were about his family, his work, or his childhood on a farm. Paul would be honored to be remembered with a fond or funny story.

In keeping with Paul's wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. His final arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055, Nick Iselo, Marty Ciaccia and Kevin Barry, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Paul E. Rebe's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

Jacob D. Maracchion

Jacob D. Maracchion, age 81, of the Town of Lee, passed away peacefully at Rome Health on January 6, 2026, with his family by his side.

Jake was born in Utica on May 19, 1944, to the late Jacob and Madeline (Johnson) Maracchion, and graduated from RFA. On July 31, 1965, he was united in marriage to the former Kathleen Giachetti at St. Paul’s Church in Rome. He worked as a saleman for Sysco for many years.

Jake was a hard worker and was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back. He was always willing to help, whether it was a family member, friend, or a local church. He was a sports enthusiast and followed the Yankees, Buffalo Bills, and Syracuse Basketball.

Jake is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen; his daughters, Mia Mittower and Melana (Craig) Williams; his sons, Dean (Briana Hand) Maracchion, and Joshua (Angela Bourgeois) Maracchion; his grandchildren, Christopher Maracchion, Micah, Jordan (Tabatha), and Joseph Mittower, and Eli Williams; eight great grandchildren; his sisters, Joann (Bruce) Banker, Marie Maracchion, and Michele Pfeiff; his brother, Blair (Joanie) Maracchion; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Dennis Maracchion.

Jake’s funeral service will be held on Monday, January 12, at 6:00PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055. Relatives and friends may pay their respects from 5:00PM - 6:00PM on Monday at the funeral home, prior to the service.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, Nick Iselo, Marty Ciaccia and Kevin Barry, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Jacob D. Maracchion's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/07/2026

Liz A. Breen

Liz Breen, age 64, passed away on December 22, nearly a year to the day after the loss of her beloved partner, Tina Folsom.

Born on May 26 in Houston, Texas, Liz was the daughter of Jannie Brantley and Jack Breen Sr.

Liz was a strong-willed, outgoing woman whose presence filled every room she entered. She had a deep love for music and found her greatest peace anytime she was near the water. Her happiest moments were spent with those she loved most—especially her partner of 20 years, Tina Folsom, and her cherished godson, Avan Dozois.The passing of Tina on December 19, 2024 left Liz with a broken heart, but now the two are reunited, together again in the arms of our loving God. Their bond was one of deep love, devotion, and companionship that will never be forgotten.

Liz is survived by her mother and siblings in Texas; her daughter, Julia Folsom; her godson, Avan Dozois; and her best friends, Cindy Dozois and Walter Sammons. She leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, strength, and unforgettable memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Liz Breen will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal. Her earthly remains will be laid to rest in a graveside service this spring in Evergreen Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved Christina.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Elizabeth A. Breen's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/07/2026

Margaret Simpson

Margaret "Peg" Anne Simpson, age 94, of Verona Beach, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the Colonial Park Nursing Home, with her family by her side.

Peg was born in San Francisco, CA on November 29, 1931, to the late Joseph and Mary Ellen Finnerty Maroney, and graduated from North Denver High School in 1949. On October 2, 1954, she was united in marriage to Thomas E. Simpson in Denver, CO. Together, they shared over 52 years of love and memories until his passing on March 3, 2007. Peg worked and retired in Rome from the Social Security Administration.

Growing up, Peg enjoyed skiing on weekends in Colorado with her two brothers. In her later years, her and Tom bowled in a co-ed league, and on Wednesday nights, she would play pinochle with several friends and would often be the scorekeeper. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and St. Mary's Church in Verona Beach. She was a great mother to her children, a fabulous baker and always made sure that there was laughter in the house.

Peg is survived by her daughter, Mary (Joseph) Brauer of Lee Center; her sons, Mark (Julie) Simpson of Cleveland, NY, Thomas (Shelley) Simpson, and Michael (Montia) Simpson both of Rochester; and her five beloved grandchildren, Tom and Matthew Simpson, Grace (TJ) Picciott, Conner (Brittany Bailey) Simpson, and Maggie (Cletus Tepas) Simpson. She was predeceased by her brothers Joseph and James Maroney.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11 AM, at St. Peter's Church, Rome. Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects to Peg and her family on Thursday, January 8, from 4 to 6 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Margaret Anne Simpson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/07/2026

Carmella (Pezzula) Preski

Carmella Pezzula Preski, cherished member of the Port St Lucie community passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026.

Born on March 28, 1932, Carmella's life was marked by her vibrant personality and deep passion for connecting with others. She enjoyed surrounding herself with family, especially all her grandchildren. Known affectionately as "Red" by her friends in Florida, Carmella was renowned for her sociable nature and ever-present smile. Carmella's enthusiasm extended to her enjoyment of casinos, horse races, and card games, particularly pinochle which she played at the South Rome Senior Center.

Carmella dedicated over 30 years to her career, working in food service and later as a therapy aide at OPWDD, where she made significant contributions through her compassionate service. She was also a member of the Church of the Transfiguration.

Her family was the center of her universe. Carmella is survived by her loving son, Gary Preski and his wife, Sybil (Houser) Preski; daughter, Marie (Preski/Evans) Perlman and her husband, Kenneth Perlman; and son, Michael Preski; grandchildren, Kristina (Preski) Mazur, Craig Evans, Joseph Preski, Chad Evans, William Preski, Emma Preski and Mimi Preski; three step- grandchildren, Scott Perlman, Hillary (Perlman) Straley and Adam Perlman. She had 13 great grandchildren, Isabella, Lily, Jacob, Kaylee, Alana, Jenna, Amelia, Eli, Ari, Nori, Arianna, Jaycie, and Scarlett; and two great, great grandchildren, Olivia and Giulianna. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John J. Preski, and her son, Joseph J. Preski, Jr.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend visitation on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 10:00AM - 12:00NOON at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055. Carmella's Catholic funeral service and Celebration of Life will take place at 12NOON at the funeral home, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation. Procession will follow to St. Mary's Cemetery where she will be laid to rest with her husband.

Contributions can be made to VITAS Health Care, located at 11380 Village Parkway, Suite 100 Port St. Lucie Florida 34987 In Carmella's memory honoring her life and spirit.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Carmella (Pezzula) Preski's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/02/2026

Mary Lou Pratt

MaryLou Pratt, age 80, of Lee Center, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Rome Health, with her family by her side, after a brief illness.

MaryLou was born in Rome on May 13, 1945 to the late John and Bernice Phillips Slaga. On April 16, 1964, she was united in marriage to Norman L. Pratt at St. Mary's Church in Rome. She worked for the New York State OPWDD for over 20 years, and was recognized as employee of the year. She was a member of St. Joseph's Church and later, St. Paul's Church.

MaryLou is survived by her loving husband, Norman; her son, John Pratt of Slingerlands, NY; her daughter, Stephanie Pratt of Cumberland, MD; her son in law, John Hoyt of Blossvale, NY; her sisters, Betsy (Michael) Gluck of Lee Center, Diane (Michael) Matejek of Skillman, NJ, and Dorothy (James) Lyndon, of Greensboro, NC; her brother in law, Sherman Lovelace; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter, Suzanne Hoyt; and her sister, Nancy Lovelace.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at St. Paul's Church, 1807 Bedford Street, Rome, at 11 AM. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Whitesboro, in the spring.

Relatives and friends may call at the church on Tuesday from 10 to 11 AM prior to the mass.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. CHestnut Street.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Mary Lou Pratt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/01/2026

Dustyn Enslin

Dustyn "Bubba" P. Enslin, age 35, of Rome, passed away unexpectedly on December 21, 2025, at Rome Health.

Dustyn was born in Rome on March 9, 1990, to Dale and Paula Howard Enslin, and educated in the Rome Schools. He worked as a contractor for various local companies and most recently was working for the Family Dollar Distribution Center.

Dustyn loved to go fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and anything to do with the outdoors.

Dustyn is survived by his mother, Paula (Ed Lemmon Jr) Enslin; brothers, Dale (Trisha Thomas) Enslin Jr. of North Dakota, Brandyn (the late Nichole Patnode) Enslin Sr of Rome, and Ryan (Maggie Britton) Enslin of Lee; several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles. He was predeceased by his father, Dale Enslin Sr. Dustyn will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life and burial in Evergreen Cemetery will be held in the spring.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Dustyn Enslin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/23/2025

Joseph LaRochelle

Joseph "Tucker" A. LaRochelle, age 87, joined his Lord and Savior at home on November 23, 2025 with his loving family by his side.

Joe was born on June 14, 1938 in Tupper Lake, NY to the late Albert and Emily (Poirier) LaRochelle. At the young age of 12 Joe found himself on his own. He foraged for food in the woods around his family's home for a short while and soon decided to make the journey to Utica, NY. He attained a job at Frank's Coalyard on Conkling Ave. where he was able to make a shed his home. One faithful summer day while Joe was taking a break, a call came from across the street, "Hey don't sit over there all alone. Come on over." That call came from what turned out to be Joe's best childhood friend, Douglas DeMarché, and forever changed the course of many people's lives. You see, sitting next to young Douglas was his older sister, Lonna Lou. Lonna would later call Joe "The very best girlfriend she had ever had."

Joseph joined the United States Air Force at 17 and became an airplane mechanic. While on leave Joe returned to Conkling Avenue where he proposed to Lonna. She declined due to a previous engagement.

Joe returned to duty and met Brenda Jane Miller and fell in love. Soon they were wed. Their son, Michael Albert, came a year later. Tucker and Brenda were thrilled with their burgeoning family. Joe was discharged with honors when his tour was complete. He remained a patriot and a proud veteran throughout his life. Tucker then moved his young family to New England for a job and soon, son Lawrence Joseph, joined the family. A better job came available near Brenda's family in Georgia and Joe moved to Gainesville. Brenda and Tucker welcomed David Anthony to their now complete family of five. Sadly, son Larry passed at a very young age.

Always being drawn to South Florida, Joe and Brenda moved their family to Hollywood, FL. He loved the weather and the geography. Joe found home there. This is when Joe decided his daily leisure attire would be a t-shirt, shorts, flip flops and a bucket hat. Joe took a job at B&W Diesel as a mechanic where his talents did shine. He specialized in transmissions. His motivation, talent and grit soon earned him a second and then a third bay. He kept each bay filled daily. He generated so much work that his boss paid Joe based on "book hours." His pay was triple and quadruple that of his peers. He worked the jobs that he had generated himself on the weekends. He blessed many people with his ability to diagnose any engine, offering a helping hand to anyone and everyone in need. To Joe's delight, son David, following in his footsteps, joined him at B&W. They worked side by side throughout the rest of their time in Florida. While driving back and forth to work they developed their business plan for their own shop. Tucker repeatedly and fondly remembered those days with pride and happiness throughout his life.

Brenda became ill with cancer and Joe felt it prudent to move her back to her family's home town. Brenda fought a great battle with son, Michael, being especially devoted to her care and comfort. Sadly, Brenda succumbed to the cancer and she passed, devastating the family.

One night Tucker decided to catch up with his childhood best friend Doug. A while into the conversation Doug mentioned that Lonna was single and had been for 15 yrs and that Joe should give her a call. Tucker called. Around a month later after close to a 100 hours of phone conversation, Joe decided to go north to see his mother and visit with Lonna. Three days later, he proposed and to his delight this time Lonna accepted. They were wedded in holy matrimony a week later on August 23, 1999. A blessed union of 27 years. Devoted to God, and to each other, they lived a happy, peaceful and content life continuing to his last breath. Their love and commitment was a beacon to those that knew them.

Tucker was an optimist, believing there is an answer to most questions. "With patience, a lever and a pulley a man can move just about anything." His youthful inquisitive spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. His smile spoke volumes.

Tucker is survived by his loving wife, Lonna Lou DeMarche LaRochelle; his sons, Michael LaRochelle, and David and Karen LaRochelle, Douglas and Sue Bamford, and Henry Stanton; his grandchildren, Audrey LaRochelle, Jesse Brooks, Irene Brooks, Kayla (Stanton) Donnenwirth, Anastasia (Bamford) Rath, and Luke Bamford; great grandchildren numbering 13; one great, great grandchild; and his sister, Gina LaRochelle. In addition to his son, Lawrence, and first wife, Brenda, he was predeceased by his brother, Raoul LaRochelle; and sisters, Emily and Elsie LaRochelle.

Joseph's memorial service was held on Friday, November 28, at 1 PM, at the Crosspoint Church, 317 Oriskany Blvd. Whitesboro, NY 13492.

Memorial contributions in Tucker's name may be made to the Valor Program at the Syracuse VA.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Joseph LaRochelle's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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