When I was 14 years old I decided to play JV football. I was a bit nervous but excited for my first season. Jerry Cocchiarella came to my first game with Joe and my brother Henry. After the game was over Jerry's words to me were so encouraging and fatherly that I gained more confidence and desire to play. I became expectant that Jerry and my new football family would come and watch me play. Jerry never disappointed me and continued to provide encouragement and fatherly advice that transcended the football field. Although our talks slowed as I had gotten older the inspiration that those talks had on me last to this very day. I am truly sad for the Cocchiarella family, but know that Jerry had a positive effect on more than his immediate family. God bless Jerry and the full 83 years he lived.