In Memory of Benjamin Ciocca

Obituary

Benjamin Ciocca, beloved husband of the predeceased Barbara Ciocca and adored father of Michael, David, and Kristin, passed away peacefully in Orlando, Florida on July 23, 2026, with family by his side. Born on December 1, 1934, in Waterville, NY to the late Leo and Carmela Ciocca, Ben’s 91 years of life can be described as a beautiful tapestry of joyful experiences, an unwavering dedication to family, faith, and work; and a steady genuine interest in others. In every phase of his life, he made a strong positive impact on everyone with whom he interacted.

He earned a B.S. from Mount St. Mary’s College and served in theNational Guard. In 1957, he married his hometown sweetheart, Barbara Anadio in Gloversville, NY and together they built and sustained a loving family and home in New Hartford, NY for nearly 61 years. As one who believed in self-discipline and the value of hard work, Ben’s accomplished career began in manufacturing at General Electric and continued in Human Resources for nearly 40 years, retiring from Lockheed Martin. His strong sense of community extended to serving on the local United Way Board of Directors in Utica, NY.

A man of great faith who never missed a weekly service, Ben was a devout member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church while living inNew Hartford, and Our Lady of Angels when in Bradenton, FL.

Ben loved friendly competition and sports. Upon retirement, Ben continued his passion for golf, playing and building wonderful friendships at the Skenandoa Club and The Preserve Golf Club at Tara. He remained a die-hard fan of the Buffalo Bills throughout his life and rooted for the NY Yankees alongside his wife.

Upon retirement, he also continued his lifelong love of learning. While in his fifties, he learned to ski and loved going to McCauley Mountain with his daughter. In his eighties, he took up piano lessons. He read profusely to stay current and loved historical biographies. His array of interests and great memory contributed to an ease in telling insightful stories, often with humorous quips. In the last month of his life, he was learning a new board game to socialize with his fellow residents and newest friends.

Ben will be profoundly missed by his children, Michael Ciocca (Terri-Jo) of Winter Springs, FL, David Ciocca of Bradenton, FL, and Kristin Ciocca Rence of Sarasota, FL. He will also be remembered by his cherished grandchildren Christopher Ciocca (Lauren), Meredith Leuzzi (Vinnie), and Abigail Ciocca; great grandchildren Leo, Elizabeth, Josephine, and Jack; as well as many nieces, nephews and grand-dog, Baci. Ben was predeceased by his parents, brother Alfonso, son-in-law, Phil, and grand-dog Buca.

Ben will always be remembered for his intense love of family; his kind, calm, and steady demeanor; his integrity, strength, and also, his delicious pancakes. To celebrate his life, a Mass will be held at St. Johnthe Evangelist Catholic Church, New Hartford, NY at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 8. A Private Interment will be at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Johnstown, NY, at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. 

Ben’s family would like to acknowledge with sincere gratitude the staff at Legacy Point Skilled Nursing and Assistive Living Facility, as well as the ICU and hospice staff at Advent Health Hospital, along with the many friends and family members for their ongoing support. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude’s Hospital or charity of choice in Ben’s honor.

Online messages of sympathy may be left at: www.fwefh.com

Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremations Services, New Hartford