Children First Foundation host memorial celebrations for Italian restaurant franchisor, Rocky Pantaleo

The Children First Foundation held a memorial celebration for Rocco (Rocky) Pantaleo, the founder of La Porchetta Italian restaurant franchise on 16th of April.

Rocky and business partner, Felice Nania founded the Italian restaurant franchise in 1985 with Rocky managing the North Carlton restaurant where their franchise journey began, until his passing one year ago.

“Rocky was a family man who cared about children and their welfare.

“He touched many people with his generosity and he was especially supportive of charities that give ill and disabled children the best possible start in life,” Rocky’s sister, Sara Pantaleo and CEO of La Porchetta Italian restaurant franchises said.

Family, friends and staff prepared a BBQ lunch for the staff and children at the farm in honour of Rocky, a great supporter of the Foundation who preferred to keep his generosity private. Lunch was preceded by an Easter egg hunt and other activities for the children.

A moving ceremony was held and an olive tree was planted beside a memorial plaque, acknowledging the restaurateurs support.

“He made a big difference to many young lives,” Sara said.

“We plan to continue his charitable work with the same spirit and commitment that he had.”

The sad mood was lifted by the sight of the enormous hole the older boys had prepared for the olive tree.

It was a day of fun and laughter and celebrating life with the jovial mood extended with entertainment by David Vizzini, Emanuelle Kelly and Rocky’s daughter, Azzurra Pantaleo.

Children First are currently housing eleven children from overseas. They are in Australia to receive life-changing surgery unavailable in their country of birth.