A tribute to a friend and the end of an Era

[Dianekkdi]

CASTELLANI, ATTILIO N., "ROCKY", 81, - of Atlantic City, passed away quietly, Sunday, August 31, 2008.

Born in Luzerne, PA., he later became known as "the pride of the coal regions." Rocky served in the U.S. Marine Corps and fought in the battle for Iwo Jima. While overseas fighting in the war, he earned the boxing title "Champion of all China and Guam."

After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Rocky embarked on a stupendous career as a professional middleweight prize fighter, being awarded Ring Magazine's honor of "Rookie of the Year." Rocky also earned the right to fight for the Middleweight Championship of the World as the number one middleweight contender in 1954. He fought for the Middleweight Title of the World against Carl "Bobo" Olsen. Rocky lost a highly coned split decision, knocking Olsen down in the 3rd round, gaining the respect of the entire international boxing community.

Rocky's career as a professional fighter also included notable battles against Sugar "Ray" Robinson, landing Robinson on the canvas for a controversial 8 count. Many scholars of the sport believed Rocky won by the knockout. This bout, as well as his fight with boxing great Gene Fullmer, are constantly featured on ESPN- Classic Fights of the Century.

Rocky was inducted into both the NJ and PA Boxing Halls of Fame and was most recently inducted into the PA Sports Hall of Fame. He retired with a record of 65-13-4 with 16 knockouts.

Rocky continued to give back to the AC Community and the boxing world by volunteering his time to the AC & Pleasantville PAL, teaching local youth the basics of his sport, known as the "sweet science" and sponsoring local softball, baseball and basketball teams.

In his retirement, he served as a judge for the NJ Boxing Commission and enjoyed the time he spent with his loving wife and 10 grandchildren. Rocky Castellani was truly a living legend, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who came in contact with him. He will truly be missed!

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Rocky's name may be made to: The Alzheimer's Association, 25 Dolphin Avenue, Building D-ground floor, Northfield, NJ, 08225. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocky_Castellani) & (the Atlantic City Press)

Links:

Sugar Ray Robinson vs Rocky Castellani part 1 of 2 Battle for #1 Contender:

Sugar Ray Robinson vs Rocky Castellani part 2 of 2:


Whenever we visited Rocky's in Atlantic City, he always had time for us. I remember when the Alzheimer's first started setting in. He would tell us the same antidote perhaps twice in one half hours time. We didn't mind; they were good stories and boxing tips. He was my husband's friend for over 40 years. He was good friend. Good memories. Good times. Great Era. Rest in Peace Rocky.

[Mr. Shaman]

The desire to stay-outta-the-mines (in PA) had produced others, of note, as well.

Jack Palance - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Charles Bronson - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia