John (Jon) Louis Rossi, 62, of Panama City Beach FL, passed away Friday, December 1, 2017. He parted this life with dignity, peacefully and pain-free after placement with Covenant Care Hospice located within Bay Medical Center Sacred Heart. At the time of his death, he was surrounded by his sister Carol Rossi, his Pastor and friend Rev. John Woodrow and his wife Melanie, and his cousin Barry Bellwood who stayed by his side until his passing to be with the Lord.
Born on the fourth of July, John grew up in Randolph, Massachusetts. His love of food developed early within the traditions of his Italian cultural upbringing and annual birthday celebrations attended by all. After graduating Randolph High School with a scholarship in home economics, he attended the Culinary Institute of America, graduating with an Associate’s Degree of Occupation Studies. During his career as a chef he worked in many great restaurants, including the Windows of the World when the Twin Towers of NY still stood; and once won an ice carving award for his rendition of a minuteman. He furthered his culinary knowledge with a Bachelor of Science management degree at Florida International University School of Hospitality. After retiring as a chef, John became a certified motorcycle safety instructor, and was recognized as an ‘Outstanding Rider Coach’ by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. He was a member of the Gulfview United Methodist Church and his hobbies included food, motorcycles, guns, deep sea fishing and his cherished golden retrievers. He loved the ocean. And no matter where he lived, it was never far away.
He was predeceased by his wife of many years, Karen P. (Atwood) Rossi in 2016; his father Tobin (Toby) F. Rossi in 2008, his grandparents, and many aunts and uncles. He is survived by a daughter Francesca Rossi, his mother Mary Rossi and sister Carol, his beloved niece Rachael Bellwood along with many cousins, uncles and aunts.
A memorial service is planned on January 13th at 2:00 p.m. at the Gulfview United Methodist Church, 245 Wisteria Lane, Panama City Beach FL. Interment of ashes will be private. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to Emerald Coast Golden Retriever Rescue at www.ecgrr.com
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