Rock "Butch" Marino, Jr., 77, of East Utica, departed this life on Friday April 16, 2021, at the Abraham House, with his loved ones by his side.

Rock was born in Utica, NY, the son of the late Rocco, Sr. and Maria (Mary) Guerriero Marino and was educated in local schools.  At one time he was married to Johanne Surace and from that marriage they had three children and the couple always retained a loving relationship with each other from the beginning to the end.

Rock in his younger days, worked for Bendix Corporation as well as several construction companies.  He then went onto his own carpentry and masonary business for many years.  Semi-retiring into the North country where he cleared several acres of land and cut down many trees.  He truly loved being in the woods and wished he was still there.  He had a true love for gardening, animals, football, Nascar and was an avid Trump supporter.  A unique, genuine, hard working caring man who would give you the shirt off his back.  He was helpful, thoughtful and very strong willed (his bark was worse than his bite).  He was an inspiration to his children and grandchildren and enjoyed time spent with his family.  He will be sadly missed but never forgotten.

Rock is survived by his loving daughter and care giver, Maria and son-in-law Michael Durso; his daughter Michelle Gaetano and her husband Greg "Tucker" and the love of his life Johanne Marino.  Also surviving are his grandchildren, Donald Marino and his fiancé Heather Chandler, Rocco Marino, Johanna Paciello and Frankie Candiano; and his great grandchildren Santino, Angelina, Bianca, Briella Marino, Dj, James and Annabella.  He also leaves a special childhood friend, Carl Mazza, and many nieces nephews and cousins.  Rock was predeceased by his son, Rocco Marino III, who he held always close to his heart, his brother Anthony Marino, and a special cousin Antoinette Gaetano.

Special thanks to the Abraham House and caregivers: Amanda, Jackie, Mylia, Sara and Char. Those wishing to contribute please consider the Abraham House and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The family gathered to honor Rock's life in a private time and services  will be held Saturday May 1,2021 at 12 Noon at St.Anthony & St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. Utica,NY where a mass of Christian burial will be celebrated.Face masks are required and social distancing and contact tracing will be implemented.Inurnment will be  in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements are under the guidance of John L Matt Funeral Home Chadwicks, NY.  To send an online greeting go to: www.johnlmattfuneralhome.com

Daddy you are the strongest man we know and fought to the end. May you rest in peace until we meet again.  Amen