Katherine "Dutch" Ruocco

Katherine “Dutch” Ruocco

September 21, 1941 – October 29, 2025

It is with profound love and deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Katherine “Dutch” Ruocco, who left this earth on October 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Dutch was born on September 21, 1941, in Morristown, New Jersey, to Joseph and Frances Adamsky. She was preceded in death by her twin sister, Marie; sister, Jody; and twin brothers, Joseph and Gerald.

She leaves behind her devoted children, Albert and Faith. Her favorite Son in law David; and her treasured granddaughters “her girls” Biata and Ciara. She also leaves her adored grand dogs, Gigi, Lola, and Bam Bam, along with her adopted son, Brian and wife Natasha.  

Dutch lived a life overflowing with love, laughter, and a good dose of honesty. She had the unique gift of making everyone feel like family—and she meant it. Whether you were one of her “boys” at Florida Air Academy, where she served as school nurse and administrator for over 20 years, a longtime friend, or someone who just happened to sit next to her once, Dutch had a way of drawing you in with her quick wit, her caring heart, and her contagious laugh.

She was known as “Mom” to hundreds, and loved every single one of them as her own. She told it like it was, but always with love, and somehow managed to make everyone feel better, even when she was pointing "that finger" or giving them “that look.”

Dutch’s door was always open and  her candy bowl was always filled.  Her strength, humor, and compassion touched more lives than she ever realized. To know her was to love her, and to be loved by her was to feel truly seen and understood. She always saw the good in everyone. 

Dutch will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all the many people whose lives she made brighter. 

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 10, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Ammen Family Funeral Home, 1001 Hickory Street, Melbourne.

A Funeral Mass will follow on Tuesday, November 11, at 11:00 AM at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Indialantic, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dutch’s memory to Saint Stephen’s Way (Melbourne, FL), Rock Steady Boxing at Advance Fitness (Melbourne, FL), or Candlelighters of Brevard. All organizations that reflect the love, hope and community, she so freely gave to others.