Obituary of Elmer J. Rossi, Jr.

Mr. Elmer J. “Chief” Rossi Jr., 89, of Amsterdam, NY died peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 14, 2021 surrounded by his family.   Born in Amsterdam, New York on March 2, 1932 he was the son of the late Elmer Rossi Sr. “Dusty Miller” and Marion Steadwell Rossi.

A lifelong area resident, Chief attended local schools.  He served proudly in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1951 until 1953. 

For many years, Chief worked in the Entertainment Business working for various Theaters in the area including The Tryon, Realto and lastly Lowes Cinemax in Rotterdam.  He was recognized by the Will Rogers Memorial Fund as an avid supporter.   He will be remembered for his strong work ethic and his love of his family.

Survivors include his wife, Estella Rossi Leonard; his children, Rev. Kim Rossi and her husband Owen Gould, Chris Rossi, Theresa Rajter- Pawlak; his sisters, Marcia McGuigan and Deborah Joralemon; four grandchildren, Christen (Vinnie) Barbaro, Steven (Krystal) Rajter, Theodore Rajter, Donald Rajter; and five great grandchildren, Tyler, Mica, Hudson, Cali and Landon; and nieces, nephews and friends.

He was predeceased by his brother, John “Jack” Rossi.

Services will take place at a later date.  Burial will take place in the family plot in St. Mary’s Cemetery with military honors.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Community Hospice.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home.  Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com