Darwin "Doug" Rocker

UTICA-Darwin Douglas Rocker, 73, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, after a brief illness.

He was born on November 6, 1949, in Boonville, NY the son of the late Walter and Harriett (Burdick) Rocker. Darwin graduated from Remsen High School in 1968 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army from 1969-1971 during the Vietnam War. He was stationed with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC and served on the Cambodian Border in Vietnam. On September 14, 1996, Darwin married Christine Paiva in Utica, a blessed union of 26 years. He was a Deputy Sherriff for Oneida County and went on to work with the Utica City School District for 27 years at TR Proctor High School, retiring as Head Custodian. Darwin was the past Master of the Masonic Home Residence Lodge in Utica and Ilion. He was also a member and Past Commander of the American Legion Utica Post #229. Doug was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who had a heart of gold. He always put others before himself and was always there to help anyone in need. His memory will forever remain in their hearts.

He is survived by his loving wife, Christine; daughters, Lynda (Ralph) Carman and Jennifer (Rocker) Hardy; sons, Billy (Leigh Ballard) Rocker, Brett (Brittany) Barnard and Wayne Barnard; beloved grandchildren, Adrianna, Billy, Jr., Addison, Douglas, Heather, Andrew (Ashley), Noah, and Mira Rocker, Jeremiah, Ayla and Austin Barnard, Rebecca (Salvo) Martello, Briana and Amber Carman, his beloved great-grandchildren Brayden and  Peyton Rocker and Aurora Astra Calliope Rocker and several nieces and nephews and dear friends, Robert “Bob” and Cheryl Santomassino. He was predeceased by his son, Ryan Rocker in 2021.

Relatives and friends and invited and may call on Wednesday April 12, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home 1122, Culver Ave, Utica. with funeral service prayers to follow. Burial will be Thursday April 13, at 11 am in St. Stanislaus Bishop & Martyrs Cemetery, Whitesboro, with Military Honors Conferred.