Rocco J. “Rock” Matera

Rocco J. “Rock” Matera, 87, passed away at home on February 2, 2023. He was born in Rock Falls, IL to the late Rocco and Josephine (Copatelli) Matera.

Rock graduated from St. Ambrose College, Davenport, IA in 1957. On December 22, 1958, Rock married Mary Ellen “Mame” Mullins at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy.

Rock was involved in all phases of the leather industry throughout his working career. He was a member of Holy Family Parish.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Mame; three daughters, Maggie (Mike) Phillips, Gina (Bill) Bogard and Mary (John) Perrone; two sons, Rocco, Jr. (Janice) and Mike (Karri); ten grandchildren, Mollie, Anna, Brad, Mike, Leslie, Rocco, Joseph, Anthony, Samantha and Ray; and five great grandchildren, Lenny, Bennett, Blake, Sydney and Harrison.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Ray and Lee and one sister, Enis Cushman.

A private memorial mass of Christian burial has taken place. Rocco was laid to rest in Calvary Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed in Rocco’s name to the Carmelite Monastery, 1250 Carmel Drive, Lafayette, LA, 70501.

The family expresses their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at SSM Home Health Care, Cancer Center and Hospice for the help and care provided.