Richard "Pap" Roccio

Richard “Pap” Roccio, 91, Altoona, passed away Saturday at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh. He was born in Altoona, son of the late John and Mary Grace (Pretola) Roccio. He later married Barbara Fink and she preceded him in death on June 1, 1993.

He is survived by a son in law, Michael J. (Harriet) Shank; 3 grandsons: Richard (Naid) Shank, of Baltimore, MD, Daniel (Katlyn) Shank, of Harpers Ferry, WV, and Robert (Sarah) Shank, of Frederick, MD; 2 great-grandchildren: Lillian and Noah; 2 siblings: Joanne Claar, of Altoona and James (Mary Agnes) Roccio, of Johnstown; and many nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by a daughter, Lisa Shank; and 2 siblings: Robert Roccio and Elizabeth Torso.

Richard was a graduate of Altoona High School and served in the United States Army. He later retired as a letter carrier from the US Postal Service.

Richard cherished every moment spent with his family. He could often be found engrossed in a classic western movie, cheering on his favorite sports teams, or lost in a good book as an avid reader. These simple pleasures brought him immense joy and were a testament to his warm and engaging spirit.

He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Church.

Friends will be received from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, May 30, 2025 in the Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11am on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at St. Rose of Lima Church. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard "Pap" Roccio, please visit our floral store.