Obituaries 03-12-2015

Rocco Anthony Jesso

Gifted and Much Loved Educator

Rocco Anthony Jesso, a Charlestown native, formerly of Revere, died on Wednesday, March 4 after a long illness at Massachusetts General Hospital. He was 83 years old.

Mr. Jesso was born and raised in his family home in Charlestown. He was educated in Boston Public Schools and graduated from Boston Technical High School, Class of 1949. He then attended Boston University, earning a B.S. in Public Relations in 1954.

After he graduated from Boston University, he was compelled to join the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, serving his country for two years. He returned home from service and continued the pursuit of his education. Rocco returned to Boston University, earning his Masters’ Degree in Education, for “Special Needs”.

That same year, on October 13, 1958, Rocco married his long time sweetheart, Rosalie L. Bravoco. The couple then moved to Revere to raise their three children and they later returned to his native Charlestown.

Rocco began his teaching career in Special Education in the Boston Public School System, specifically East Boston High School. During his tenure, he became the Department Head of Special Education. This was not a job for him, it was his life’s passion. He poured himself into his work to help enrich the lives of every student that he encountered. He also taught classes at the Barnes School in East Boston on American Immigration.

Rocco also found time to dedicate to other kids, in sports. He coached J.V. Track, J.V. Baseball and Soccer – but above all he was the Hockey Coach at East Boston High School for 26 years.

Rocco had a gift whether in the classroom, on a field, on the ice or in the streets to take the time to listen to what was happening in a person’s life and guide them. He truly inspired these children to better themselves, to help them see a different path in life and make better choices for themselves, because he genuinely cared.

In 1984, Rocco earned another Master’s Degree from Salem State College in School Administration. He was a prime example of a man of great character and determination, all that he had attained in his life, he did while being a caring and loving father and devoted husband while caring for his ailing wife for many years. He endured hardships in his life and felt the pain of losing his wife and his son. He was a man who loved what he did made a difference in many of the lives he encountered.

He was a member of; Knights of Columbus (Revere) East Boston Athletic Board , Special Class Teachers’ Assoc. Boston Coaches Assoc., Mass State Hockey Association and the V.F.W.

The devoted husband of the late Rosalie L. (Bravoco) Jesso with whom he shared 36 years of marriage, he was the loving father of Laura M. McDonald of Winthrop, Christine J. Pasquariello of Peabody and the late Michael J. Jesso; the cherished grandfather of Michael T. Jesso of New Hampshire and Matthew M. McDonald of Florida; the beloved brother of Mary Jesso and Lee Jesso, both of Charlestown and the late Phyllis Perrone. He is also lovingly survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and by many extended family, colleagues former students and players.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, Revere. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Make A Wish Foundation, One Bulfinch Place Suite 201, Boston, MA 02114-2031.

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