Frank A. Perocchi

Frank Anthony Perocchi Frank Anthony Perocchi, 62, of Melbourne, FL died Saturday, September 28th at his home. Frank was born and educated in Lawrence, MA, the son of the late Pauline (Fletcher) and Anthony Perocchi. He spent most of his childhood in Lawrence until a tragedy begot him and the rest of his family when Frank was only 16 years old. Shortly after losing his mother, Frank enlisted into the US Marine Corps and spent much of his enlisted years overseas in places such as Okinawa, Thailand and Indochina. Frank served for twenty years in the Marines beginning his career as a Ground Combat Engineer. After graduating at the top of his class from the FAA Air Traffic Control Academy, he became an Air Traffic Controller and then a Supervisor appointed as USMC/FAA Liaison Officer. Frank graduated college from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He also received many certifications and medals such as the Navy Commendation Medal for planning and controlling major exercises. After his distinguished military career, Frank accepted a position as a Staff Systems Test Engineer for IBM where he assisted in the development of the next generation of Air Traffic Control Systems. Frank Perocchi, US Marine Corps, CWO4 (ret) was a member of the Cape Canaveral chapter of the Military Officers of America Association (MOAA) for the past two years. With 1,500 members, MOAACC is the largest, and most active, chapter in MOAA, and is receiving the Brevard County Humanitarian Award this year for the community support it has provided. Frank was a highly decorated officer who served three tours, as a Combat Engineer, in Viet Nam. He distinguished himself in several of the more intense campaigns, including Khe San and Tet. After retiring to the Indian River Colony Club (IRCC), Frank was a very dependable volunteer at the Veterans Administration Clinic in Viera, Fla. He chauffeured handicapped vets from the parking lot to the clinic every Friday afternoon, and also assisted in administrative tasks at the clinic, and helped some of his IRCC veteran friends with claims and other administrative issues at the VA. Frank credited all of his volunteer hours at the clinic to MOAA. Among Frank's hobbies, jogging, fishing, and playing cards were a few of his favorites. He was also very active at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church as well as in the IRCC. Frank spent his last several years living in Melbourne where he spent much time enjoying life with his wife, children and grandchildren. He had a very close knit group of fellow veteran friends which he would get together with often to play cards, and other activities. Frank will truly be missed by his family and friends including his vast extended family here in Melbourne, Fla. He had a kind heart, a larger-than-life smile, and a deep love for his country. In addition to his parents, Frank was predeceased by his daughter Jessica Perocchi. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia. His sons Anthony, Dustin and Frank Jr. Perocchi and his daughters, Julie Cameron, Jennifer Perocchi , Marie Strausbaugh, Teresa Perocchi and stepdaughter, Kristal Jarman. Grandchildren James Strausbaugh, Adam Fyffe, William Lovelace, Amberlyn and Asher Perocchi, Step grandchildren Sierra and Kristin Stone. His sister, Jayne and her husband John Regan, brothers William and his wife Nanci Perocchi, and David Perocchi. Also several nieces and nephews. A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10:00AM, Friday, October, 4, 2013 at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 5655 Stadium Parkway, Viera, FL 32940. The family will receive friends at the Beckman-Williamson Funeral Home, 5400 Village Drive, Viera, FL 32955, on Thursday, October 3, 2013 from 7 till 9P.M. and 1 hour prior to the service at the church. Frank will be buried in the Arlington National Cemetery with Full Military Honors at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donation's in Frank's name to St John the Evangelist Catholic Church New Building Fund. You may sign Frank's guest book at www.beckmanwilliamson.com