Francis L. Rossoni

82, of Johnston, passed away November 16, 2008. Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, the only son of Pasquale and Maria (Fusco) Rossoni. For 56 years, he was the beloved husband of Rose Ann (Pezzullo) Rossoni. He was very loved and is survived by: his children Pasquale, Mary Ann and Francis Rossoni, and Elizabeth Rocchio; his grandsons Michael, Eric, Matthew and Christopher Rossoni and Francesco, Antonio and Stephen Rocchio; and his sisters Esther Simoli, Evelyn Rapoza and Elvera Russo. Upon graduation from Providence College, Francis worked as a cartographer for the Defense Mapping Service, a Lab Technician at Charles V. Chapin Hospital and later went on to teach at: Sockanosset Boys Training School, Oliver Hazard Perry and Mt. Pleasant High School where he taught the biological sciences for 32 years until retirement. A true educator, while at Mt. Pleasant he helped found the Medical Magnet Program, preparing students for careers in the medical profession. Revered by many of his students, he would later cross paths with them on his own path toward better health. A dedicated and gifted teacher, he also revived the Mt. Pleasant High School greenhouse, tutored in after-school programs and taught Drivers Education. Francis was a devout Catholic and a firm believer in hard work, never having missed a single day of work in his entire career. He also made time for family and friends and shared his many talents. Francis was an avid gardener, contractor, visual artist and multi-instrumentalist having performed for many years as a violinist in the Providence Senior Civic Orchestra and as a member of the Old Fiddlers' Club of RI. He will be remembered by many for his kindness and compassion. His funeral will be held on Wednesday at 9 am from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Rocco's Church Atwood Ave. Johnston. Burial will be in St. Ann's Cemetery Cranston. VISITING HOURS TUESDAY 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Rocco School, 931 Atwood Avenue, Johnston or The American Heart Association of RI 222 Richmond St. Suite 108 Providence, RI 02903 . Please visit www.nardolillo.com for more information and online condolences. The family wishes to thank the staff of Home and Hospice Care of RI and the Braircliffe Nursing Home for their dedication to Francis care.

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