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07/27/2023 10:32 AMJohn Michael “Rock” Fonicello, 63, passed away suddenly on July 18 at his apartment in Oakdale. John was born on Oct. 30, 1959, in Guilford, the son of Arthur G. and Helen V. Fonicello. John was predeceased by his father. In addition to his mother, John is survived by his brothers, Paul, Arthur, and Kenneth Fonicello, and his sister Cynthia Fonicello Vansickle and her husband, Nathan Vansickle.
John graduated from Guilford High School, Class of 1978, and Southern Connecticut State University. John worked as a manager at his family’s business, Fonicello’s Home and Garden Center, and later at Plant Lot Farms, Oakdale. He loved the Rhode Island beaches, playing softball, and spending time with family and friends. He was able to fulfill his lifetime dream of seeing the sequoia trees in California.
Special thanks to his landlord, Drew, and boss, Geoff, who looked out after him the last several years of his life. Unfortunately, the past several years of his life were not generous to him. He suffered from surgical complications due to severe ulcerative colitis. He was in constant pain, which eventually led to severe emotional suffering.
We will be hosting a Celebration of Life from 2 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19, at East Creek Landing in Guilford, 390 South Union Street Guilford. This will be a bring-and-share BYOB event. Please bring any pictures or memorabilia of Rock to share at his Celebration of Life. All funds raised will go to pay for his funeral expenses. If you cannot attend, you may donate on Gofundme.com and type “Rock rest in peace” in the search field.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 27, at St. George Church, 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford. The burial will take place privately. Arrangements are in care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.