Friday, December 17, 1943
I send my heartfelt condolences to the Conte family. I have known Rocco for over 25 years, ever since my wife, Philomena, joined O’Connor McGuinness. Rocco and Phil worked closely together on many of the firm’s medical malpractice cases. Phil would teach Rocco a little medicine (prior to law school, Phil had been a nursing instructor) and Rocco would teach her pretty much everything else. Rocco had two essential qualities as a trial lawyer - he would always know his cases inside and out and he was always well liked and respected by juries, judges and colleagues - a winning combination for a successful lawyer. I have two personal memories of Rocco. Once a year or so a group of us would meet at Carmine’s restaurant on the upper west side for a family style Italian dinner. Betsy, Rick and Debbie would come and, of course, Rocco and Eileen would be there. Rocco (with oversight by Phil) would love to choose the menu. He particularly loved Carmine’s linguine, garlic and oil - a simple but very tasty dish. In fact, if Phil and I ever ate at Carmine’s without Rocco, Phil would be sure to order the linguine for takeout to bring to Rocco the next day. I assume the linguine would be gone by lunchtime that day. I also remember the time Rocco came down to NYU Law to give a guest lecture on medical malpractice law. I was a student there at the time and had invited Rocco to speak to our health law society group. He was in his element that day, clearly enjoying the opportunity to step out of his daily routine and teach some eager students. He had such a pleasant, gentlemanly way about him. He was very well received. I know my wife will miss him greatly. I will too. Richard Basuk
