Rocco Gigante, Jr., on October 7, 2020, of Runnemede, formerly of South Philadelphia. Age 91.
Beloved husband of the late Anna Marie (nee Petito). Devoted father of Roxanne Mohnacs (Joe), Esther Marie Gigante-Harvey (Thad) and Andrea DiGiovanni (Paul). Loving grandpop of Joseph Rocco and Marisa. Dear brother in law of Marie Petito and the late John Petito. Also survived by nieces and nephews.
Dr. Gigante proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of Holy Child Parish where he served as an usher and altar server. Dr. Gigante was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Order Sons of Italy in America and the Chadmoore Club.
Dr. Gigante received his Undergraduate Degree from West Chester State Teachers College and his Master's Degree from Temple University. He then received a Fellowship from Harvard University and Doctorate in Education from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Gigante retired after 40 + years from the School District of Philadelphia as a school administrator.
There will be a viewing from 6 to 8pm Sunday eve and 9:15 to 10:15am Monday morning at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE.
Funeral Mass 11am Monday at Holy Child Parish, St. Maria Goretti RC Church, Runnemede.
Interment private.
Family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Dr. Gigante's memory to the Columbus Forum Scholarship Fund, 2340 S. 16th St., Philadelphia, PA 19145.
Services
Visitation
Runnemede, NJ 08078
Visitation
Runnemede, NJ 08078
Service
Runnemede, NJ 08078
Someone has supported the family by purchasing them flowers or gifts from the Healing Registry.
Esther and family, my deepest condolences at this difficult time. Mr. Gigante was truly an accomplished and remarkable person. May the memory of the many years and good times you had together comfort and heal you. Sincerely, Bill Zorzanello
Rocco was a kind and wonderful man. He was multi-faceted. He loved his family, his church, and his heritage. He was always there to help others. It was my privilege to work with him and call him my friend. He will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
To The Family we are sorry for your loss. It was always an honor and pleasure to see Uncle Rocky from Phily. Tom&Eleanor Mirandi
My sincere condolences on the loss of a caring, wonderful man who I was privileged to call my friend. He will always be remembered in my fondest memories.
Linda Gotlieb
Rocco positively influenced countless school children in his roles with the School District of Philadelphia - and served as a mentor and coach to many teachers and administrators during his long carreer. Respectfully, I note he was a giant in so many ways. Rest in Peace.
George W. Roesser, Ed D
So sorry for your loss. He will be missed by many.
I am so sorry for your lost he was the nicest and kindest person I have meet he will be missed by all of us at four o’clock mass Rest In Peace Rocco