ROCCO RABAIOTTI

86, of Cranston, RI, entered eternal life on Monday, November 28, 2011 surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Concetta (Celani) Rabaiotti. They had been married for 64 years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Bartolomeo and Maria (Colafrancesco) Rabaiotti.

A loving father, and grandfather, Rocco was the proud father of three sons, Robert Rabaiotti and his wife Marie of Johnston, Richard Rabaiotti and his wife Caterina of Kingman, AZ and the late David Rabaiotti; three grandchildren, Shayna, Evan and Michela. He was the brother of Antonio Rabaiotti, Lucy Hitchen, Katy Briganti and the late Emily Marganti and Armando Rabaiotti.

Rocco was a parishioner of St. Bartholomew Church since 1964. He was the treasurer of Celani Construction for 38 years before retiring. Upon retiring, he assumed a position at Our Lady of Fatima Hospital as a finish carpenter. He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran fighting in the 106th Infantry. He fought in many battles in Europe, notably in the Battle of the Bulge.

Through the years, Rocco enjoyed being involved in many organizations. He has been a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus member since 1976. He proudly served as Grand Knight of Hope Council in 1978 winning the prestigious State Award for having the best council. He has also been involved with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, United Commercial Travelers, St. Bartholomew Holy Name Society, and the Manton Senior Center. He also volunteered at the VA Hospital.

The "ROC" will always be remembered for his wonderful dancing, winning smile, his willingness to always lend a hand to others and someone who knew how to have a good time. His home and family were most important to him. He opened his home to all and many wonderful memories were shared there.

His funeral will be held on Thursday at 10 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Bartholomew's Church, 305 Laurel Hill Ave., Providence at 11 a.m. Interment with military honors will be at St. Ann Cemetery in Cranston.

VISITING HOURS THURSDAY MORNING 9-10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rocco's memory may be made to: The Jimmy Fund, 10 Brookline Place West - 6th Floor, Brookline MA 02445.