Alfonse D. Rocci, age 101, legendary usher and oldest living former employee of the Boston Red Sox passed away on the morning of March 6, 2019.
Born at home on Hanover St. in Boston’s North End, he was the son of the late Michael and Adeline (Cillo) Rocci. He began working for the Red Sox in 1936 and stayed at Fenway until retiring in 1975. The only time he missed a game was during his military service. A decorated army veteran of World War II, Al was a Staff Sergeant with the reconnaissance company of the 661st Tank Destroyer Battalion and saw combat in the Rhineland and central Europe. After his discharge, he returned to his Medford home, his family and Fenway. Throughout his career as an usher and supervisor of the press gate, he got to know all the greats of Boston sports. During the off season and after his retirement from the Red Sox he continued in the same capacity with the Patriots for 30 years. He was feted by the Red Sox for his years of dedication to the team and fans and honored in the Legends Suite at Fenway Park. Al was a devoted family man who loved animals. He was a good neighbor and friend to many.
The beloved husband of the late Josephine (Marzullo) Rocci, who passed away in 2009, Al was a loving father to Carol Rocci of Stoneham. He is predeceased by his siblings and leaves his nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be Monday, March 11 from 4 - 7 PM at Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford. A funeral service will be conducted in the funeral home on Tuesday, March 12 at 10 AM. Burial with military honors will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.
In lieu of flowers please honor Al's memory by making a contribution in his name to the Kitty Connection, PO Box 559, Medford, MA 02155, www.kittyconnection.net or to the Doris Day Animal Foundation 8033 Sunset Boulevard, suite 8, Los Angeles, CA 90046, www.dorisdayanimalfoundation.org.