Obituary of John Austin Cocca

On January 13, 2024 John Austin Cocca 86, of Venice, FL passed away. He was born on

December 12, 1937, to Charles and Camille Cocca and grew up in Gowanda, NY. John resided in

Clifton Park, NY where he raised his family and had a 34-year career with South Colonie School

District. After graduating from Suny Albany, John started his career as a history teacher then

became an administrator. He was the principal of Veeder Elementary School when he retired in

1993. In retirement, John enjoyed golf, travel, and spending time with family and friends. He

was a lifelong Red Sox fan. John is survived by his loving wife, Helen; five children David (Mary)

Cocca, Michael (Ann) Cocca, Stephen Cocca, Paul Cocca, and Kristen (Waldek) Cyrulik; two

siblings Tom (Marty) Cocca, Steve (Vicki) Cocca, and eleven grandchildren. John was preceded

in death by his parents and brother Charles Cocca. Family and friends may join us for a Catholic

mass on January 30 th 2024 at Our Lady of Lourdes, 1301 Center Rd at 11:30. Donations in

memory of John can be made either to Tidewell Hospice at tidewellfoundation.org or

Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.