John Rossi

Colonel John Edward Rossi, 93 years of age, of Concord, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2015. Col. Rossi was born July 20, 1921 in Morris, Illinois to the late John Rossi and the late Hazel Bryant Rossi. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Bernice Johnson and Harriett Rossi.

Survivors include his wife of 72 years, Virginia Rossi; his son, Jay Rossi and wife, Cynthia of Matthews, NC; and granddaughter, Dr. Heather Rossi and husband, James Pennington of Wynnewood, PA.

John was drafted into the Army during WWII. He served as an amphibious tank platoon leader in the Pacific theater. His unit first fought in New Guinea.
He participated in the first wave of the amphibious assault into the philippines. He was among the first allied solders to land and occupy Japan. After WWII he had a break in active duty service. His reserve unit was called up for the Korean conflict, where he served as a front line infantry Captain. His final war time assignment was as an Army Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel in Vietnam. Among his numerous awards and decorations are three awards of the Combat Infantry Badge. John retired as a full Colonel after 29 years of active duty service.

As civilians, John and Virginia settled on Harkers Island, NC where John obtained his Coast Guard Certified Captains license and enjoyed fishing. He studied welding and painting at the community college, always learning and staying busy. In 1993 John and Virginia moved to Concord, NC to be closer to their son’s family and make new friends.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.hartsellfh.com

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord, NC is serving the Rossi family.