Joseph A. Roccaforte

Joseph A. Roccaforte (fondly known as Rocky) passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024 at his home in Rockford Illinois. Joe had recently celebrated his 60th birthday when he was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Joe was born July 7, 1964 to Phillip and Donna Roccaforte. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1982 with the desire to pursue law enforcement. He began a career in machine tool in 1983, as he found an interest in working with engines, and heavy equipment. His career flourished in fabrication, machine set up, and project management. At the time of his passing Joe was employed at Machine Tool Builders of Machesney Park. Joe was a mentor to his peers, and well respected by the company as a problem solver and team player, utilizing his abilities in trouble shooting mechanical faults as well as fabricating, setting up and running machinery. Joe enjoyed singing karaoke at various venues throughout Rockford and Belvidere, Illinois. Joe enjoyed performing songs of Elvis Presley. He was known for his tribute performances of Elvis throughout the area. Many would be in attendance to listen to his near perfect rendition, right down to his costume and the scarf presentation to the ladies. His love for entertaining was second only to his ability to rebuild an engine. His most recent project was a Dodge Ram, where he rebuilt the engine and obtained various body parts to complete the truck. The finished product was a blue, purple, and black Ram truck, what a site, but boy does it run. Joe was very proud of this accomplishment. Vroom Vroom! Joe had the uncanny ability to find friendship with everyone he came in contact with, he knew how to make people smile and feel appreciated. He was loved by many. He would often entertain friends and family with cookouts where Joe would prepare his favorite foods on the grill. Every guest left with a smile and a new story to share. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Phillip Roccaforte and Donna Crumpton; his sister Pamela Lewis; and his son Bobby Roccaforte. Joe is survived by his daughters; Amanda Stebbins and Shelby Roccaforte; his grandchildren, Brandon, Riley, Ashton, Samantha, Kaidence, Leah, Autumn, Jaxon and Morgan and his sisters; Jennifer Ruckel and Mari Silva Ramirez, as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins. Extended family included his Mom Judy; his special friend and neighbor, Dee; and Kiana who was dear to his heart. Family and friends are welcome to Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 4301 N. Main Street, Rockford Illinois, at 1:00 pm November 2, 2024 for a Celebration of Life memorial service to honor and commemorate Joe's life. In addition a remembrance celebration will continue at Town Hall Lounge, 5624 N. Second Street, Loves Park. A light lunch will be served to the sounds of karaoke. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.

Joseph A. Roccaforte

July 7, 1964 - September 15, 2024