Obituary of Rudolph M. Mortillaro

With great sadness we announce the unfortunate passing of Rudolph "Rudy" Mortillaro at the age of 96. Monday December 1, 2025, Rudy left this life exactly how he lived it, surrounded by his family, relatives and so many friends. His beloved home from birth to passing was Rochester, NY. A proud son of Rochester, and it is here where he learned his values, strength, along with an unwavering commitment to family and friends.

Rudy began his journey in the heart of Rochester at Mt. Carmel Church and Elementary school. Attending school during the day, then honoring his faith on weekends as an Alter Boy. Around the age of 10, in his spare time, his enthusiastic work ethic was already in effect as he contributed to his family’s finances by working at Fioravanti Florists. Only to return there after retirement, working seasonally until the age of 95. Moving forward to East High School, Rudy exhibited his leadership skills by excelling in academics, along with earning citywide honors as one of Rochester’s top high school fullbacks on their football team.

Shortly after graduating from East High School (Class of 1948), Rudy was called to duty. Drafted into the armed services in support of the Korean War effort. He honorably served as a soldier in the U.S. Army. After basic training, he was stationed throughout Europe as part of a unit prepared to stop any uprising by potential enemy combatants. He was discharged as a decorated, proud Veteran.

Life began for Rudy when he married his one true love, Marilyn. Together, for 53 years they were inseparable. Supporting and nurturing each other, along with raising their five children. Inseparable. If you happened to be in North Miami Beach or Baltimore; at Uncle Frank and Aunt Lorainne Niger’s or Hermie and Estelle Roth’s home; LaScala’s or Grinnell’s Restaurants and you saw Marilyn, Rudy was next to her. Marilyn passed in 2012. Rudy lovingly rejoined her on Monday.

While excelling as Salesman for well over 30 years at Eber Brother’s Wine and Liquor, Rudy amassed great achievements, considerable success and the ultimate respect and friendship from his peers. It was this example he passed on to his children. Together, Rudy and Marilyn created a loving home; a disciplined, yet nurturing atmosphere, and most importantly a place filled with laughter. Undeniably, Rudy and Marilyn passed a fulfilling spirit that will forever permeate the generations which follow.

Rudy is predeceased by his remarkable wife, Marilyn Mortillaro. Also, predeceased by parents Joseph and Mary Mortillaro; Mother-in-law “Mommy Rose” Zola; his brothers Joe and Leonard Mortillaro; son Scott Daitz. Surviving Rudy: sons David (Lisa Caramante) Mortillaro, Gary and Laurie Mortillaro, Paul (Elena Hoyos Regeura) Mortillaro; daughter Gail Daitz. Dear friend Lorrainne Niger, Cousin Wayne Perlo, Nieces Paula, Sandy, and Camile; and his breakfast friend, Dr. Frank LaMar. His further legacy: 12 Grandchildren, 4 Great Grand Children (with two more on the way) Numerous relatives, countless friends and loved ones.

Finally, it is with profound gratitude we say a heartfelt thank you to the entire Bechtold Family. They adopted Rudy and cared for him as a father. He was always invited to their gatherings. Even some of their corporate events too. However, Rudy was happiest sitting in Mike’s garage, sipping a glass of bourbon while smoking a cigar and cheering for the Buffalo Bills.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 4th from 4-7 PM at Falvo Funeral Home 1295 Fairport Nine Mile Pt. Rd. (Rte. 250) Webster, NY 14580. Please join the family for his Funeral Mass on Friday, December 5th  at 10 AM at Peace of Christ Parish at St. Ambrose Church, 25 Empire Blvd. Rochester, NY 14609. Interment White Haven Memorial Park.