DiLorenzo, Dr. Ronald (Rocco) Eugene Born 11/16/31 in the Bronx, New York to Dr. Louis and Maria DiLorenzo, Rocco lived a life of exceptional kindness, nobility and humor. As a tenured St. Louis University professor his passion for literature inspired many over the years. Surrounded by loving family he passed peacefully at home on 10/5/18, leaving behind the love of his life and wife of 65 years, Bernadette, 9 children, 13 grandchildren, and many friends and colleagues.
As a baby, little 'Rindy' weighed just two pounds. His mother, Maria, dressed him in doll clothes. By high school, Ron had grown to a strapping 6'4", and had developed an avid interest in theatre. While acting in a play, 'The Flies,' at Oberlin College, Ron met Bernadette Marie Lucas. He was immediately smitten. They were married on August 22, 1953. While they finished school (and during Ron's army service), the young and adventurous couple called many places home.
In 1969, the growing DiLorenzo family settled in St. Louis, MO. There, Ron pursued a career as an English professor at St. Louis University. He was happiest teaching and advising students.
For nearly 30 years, Dr. DiLorenzo was reknowned for his cozy, book-stuffed office; entertaining stories; wacky wardrobe; and distinctive red-and-blue suede shoes.
We will dearly miss our dear Dad Bloor: avid movie buff; camping aficionado; Cardinals fan; alligator collector; and innovative cook. Thank you for telling us Bloat stories; teaching us to swim; demonstrating how to stretch a dollar beyond belief; providing hilarious commercial voiceovers; mastering 'the graf;' and being the most devoted father and husband.
Dad, we will remember your uproarious laugh; delicious lasagne; 'Cuban Pete' dance; flawless comedic timing; distinctive sneeze; flair with the fine art of leftovers; as well as your deeply-embedded appreciation of the absurd. We will greatly miss the comforting sound of your gentle Bronx twang.
You are the finest and kindest person we know.
In honor of 'Old Corn-Tooth,' we stand in our flood pants, and lift up our jelly donuts in a loving salute!
We love you,
Chaitz, Yiyo, Bree, Bikko, Isha, Raytee, Trog, I-zwigga, and Roman
P.S. You will be happy to know that we managed to get a deal on the price of your funeral! Services: 10/19/18 11:30am public visitation and 12:30pm mass both at St. Anthony of Padua, 3140 Meremac St., St. Louis, MO.