Rocco Joseph Fiorino, 94, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida passed away peacefully on September 6, 2015 at the McGraw Hospice Center in Jacksonville, Florida. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut on October 9, 1920 to Joseph and Eva Fiorino. There, he graduated from Bulkeley High School. Mr. Fiorino continued his education to include an MA degree in Public Administration from Oklahoma University.
Music was always his passion, and he played the saxophone and clarinet throughout his life. His favorite musical style was the “Big Band” swing sound of the 1930’s and 40’s. He often played with the likes of Tiny Quinn and Artie Shaw as a young man. While living in Oklahoma City, he performed at local dances with his own band, “Rocco and His Orchestra”. His professional career was as a consultant in Computer Analysis at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
As an enlistee in the U.S. Army during WWII, he proudly served our country. While stationed in Calcutta, India, he met and married his wife of 58 years, Norine Nichols Fiorino. They enjoyed living in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Kona, Hawaii. Adventure attracted the couple to travel to exotic destinations around the world.
A caring and humble man, he was most fond of his family. He is survived by his only daughter, Burma Domenico (Jim deceased); grandsons, Joe Domenico, Billings Montana and Jay Domenico, Jacksonville Beach, Florida; sister, Marge Frasso (Steve) of Naples, Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Fiorino was a member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Parish. Committal with a private service was held at the Parish Columbarium.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his memory be made to Community Hospice of NE Florida, 4266 Sunbeam Rd., Jax. FL 32257.
Please visit our online Tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com. Services under the direction and care of Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home.
