Obituary of Charles M. Cuccia

Charles M. Cuccia, age 89, passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2017 in Suffern, NY. Charles "Chuck" was born July 9, 1927 in Bronxville, NY to Frances and the late Charles Ruggerio. He graduated from Briarcliff High School and then the Franklin School of Arts in NYC and honorably served his country in the Navy from 1945-1947 and again in in the Army from 1951-1953. While stationed in Mannheim, Germany during his Army service he met Yvonne Herweck who was to become his bride. After settling in Westchester and then Rockland County, Chuck & Yvonne raised three children, Mariette, Sue and Chuck. After working as a commercial artist Chuck also worked as a printer, a trade he learned from his adoptive father Frank Cuccia. He was employed by Gannett Co. from 1968-1983 at the Rockland Journal News. His passion however, was his artwork which later became "Pets in Portrait", a hobby and small business that combined his love for all animals but particularly dogs, with his love for drawing in pastels. His love for his children was rivaled only by his devotion to his six grandchildren, demonstrated by his joyful participation in as many aspects of their lives as possible. Nothing made him happier than attending his grandchildren's Little League games, dance recitals, school concerts or just sharing any part of their daily routines. Chuck will be remembered for his nurturing kindness & compassion, his willingness to help any person or animal in need and a good-natured sense of humor. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Yvonne, his three children, two son-in-law's and daughter-in-law Maurice Haberman, Tony Raggo and Andrea Cuccia, his grandchildren Michael, Tony, Alex, Rachel, Sara and Jonathan, his great-grandchildren Charles and Brielle and his rescue dog, Honey. He is also survived by his brother Frank Cuccia, sister Beatrice DiCarlo and is predeceased by his sister Marie Cuccia. A memorial service will be held at the T.J. McGowan Sons Funeral Home, 71 North Central Highway Garnerville, NY on April 9, 2017 from 2-4:00 p.m. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.