Rocco Robert Tutela, M.D., of Short Hills, N.J., passed away at the age of 66 31 Aug 1942 on Dec. 29, 2008. His funeral and burial will take place on Saturday, Jan. 3, at 10 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Church in Short Hills, N.J. Family and friends will gather at the funeral home at 9 a.m. Son of Dr. Arthur and Josephine Tutela, Rocco was born and raised in Newark, N.J. A graduate and member of the athletic hall of fame of Admiral Farragut, he went on to earn his bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame, before continuing his education at the University of Bologna, where he earned his medical degree. He returned to the United States, where he served in the 322nd General Army Hospital Reserve. Rocco carried on his father's legacy as a physician. He served his community as a board-certified plastic surgeon for over 30 years. He was chief of plastic surgery at Columbus Hospital in Newark, N.J. Rocco's dedication to excellence, education, family and the Italian culture was represented by the many awards granted to him: UNICO Achievement Award, Christopher Columbus Heritage Award, Man of the Year: Federation of Italian American Societies, and Physician of the Year John I. Crecco Foundation. He brought happiness to everyone that he met and enjoyed life to the fullest extent. He mastered the game of golf at Rock Spring Club and Boca West Country Club. His love for travel carried him through the world. His strength and fortitude centered on his family. Rocco always kept a smile on the faces of his family and friends; to him this was his true treasure. Rocco Tutela has left behind his own legacy of virtue and commitment to the community. He is survived by his wife, Franca and his five children: Arthur C. Tutela, M.D., Joelle J. Tutela, Ph.D., Rocco Tutela Jr., M.D., Kristi-Jo Tutela Esq., and John Paul Tutela, M.D., and his three daughters-in-law: Tricia, Tracy and Nicole. He was also blessed with three grandchildren, Luca Rocco, Sebastian Arthur and Marco Peter. He is cherished by all who knew him.
Published in the Star-Ledger on 1/1/2009