It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Severino "Rocky" Ferracini.

Rocky was born in Milan, Italy, on July 16, 1930, to Belino and Maria Ferracini. He was one of seven children. Growing up as a teenager in war-torn Italy was very difficult. However, in 1954, he married the love of his life, Rosetta Galetta, and together they immigrated to the United States in November 1955, becoming U.S. citizens in 1962.

After arriving in the United States, Rocky tried farming and hauling water to the oil fields. But for an Italian immigrant who spoke little English, life in rural Colorado was challenging. Rocky always had a passion for food and cooking, and in 1967, he opened the Woodrow Café in Woodrow, Colorado. Customers traveled from Brush and Fort Morgan to enjoy his Italian food. Although he did not have a liquor license, he was always willing to serve a little Chianti in a coffee cup—just in case the liquor inspector happened to stop by.

Encouraged by his loyal customers from Brush and Fort Morgan, Rocky opened the Gondola restaurant in 1969. Then, in 1971, he had the opportunity to purchase the Scotch-N-Steer restaurant in Brush, Colorado. The Steer became well known throughout the area for its delicious prime rib and spaghetti. Rocky deeply appreciated his customers and often said they ate, drank, danced, and never caused any trouble—except for the occasional late-night jump into the adjacent motel swimming pool after the lounge closed.

Rocky was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where he often catered prime rib and spaghetti dinners whenever the Archbishop visited the local parish.  He tried to give back to the community by supporting the Brush Rodeo and providing dinners to the Brush Football team while his grandson was attending Brush High School.

Rocky is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Rosetta (Rosa); his sons, Ric (Joy) and Terry (Mary Kay); his daughter, Rosanna; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He will always be remembered for his gregarious personality, his love of life, and his joyful singing of Italian songs. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Rocky will be cremated, with interment at Brush Memorial Cemetery.  A private ceremony for family and close friends is being planned for a later date.