Michael Arthur Della Rocco Jr.

In Loving Memory of Michael Arthur Della Rocco Jr.

January 28, 1959 – July 17, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Mike, who left this world peacefully with his family by his side with The Beatles playing gently in the background. He was 66 years old.

Born on January 28, 1959, in New Haven, Connecticut, Mike lived a life rooted in great food, music and perfectly timed one-liners. A lifelong Yankees fan and devoted sports enthusiast, he found his true calling on the field—not as a player, but as a respected and admired umpire in the world of girls fastpitch softball.

Over the course of his exceptional career, Mike became a pillar of the umpiring community. Known for his fairness, professionalism, and unmistakable presence behind the plate, he earned the distinguished honor of National Umpire of the Year in 2015 and was proudly inducted into both the State and National Umpire Hall of Fame—accolades that only begin to capture the impact he made on the game and the countless lives he touched. As you can see in this video, his NSA family meant the world to him. We are so incredibly proud of his accomplishments. https://playnsa.com/mike-dellarocco-nsa-hall-of-fame-2023/

Beyond the diamond, Mike was a quiet man of wit and deep loyalty. He is survived by his loving wife, Penny, who was his constant companion and greatest supporter. He also leaves behind his children—Taylor Lund (Nathan Lund, grandchildren Myles and Maggie), Michael Della Rocco III, and Elizabeth Niccum (Ryan Niccum, grandchildren Reid and Connor)—each of whom carry forward his legacy of perseverance, stubbornness and a zest for classic rock music and off-beat comedy. His extended family, friends, fellow umpires, and players will forever remember his larger-than-life spirit and the genuine care he brought into every interaction.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Clara; his sister, Donna; and his son, Paul.

Whether he was sharing stories from the field, singing along to classic rock, or cheering on his team with unwavering devotion, Mike lived life with heart and humor.

He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered. In his honor, we invite all who knew him to carry forward the values he exemplified: passion, fairness, and love for the game—and for each other.

Special thanks to the incredibly compassionate ICU Team at Community North Hospital.

"And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make." – The Beatles

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at the Community Park Lion’s Club Shelter 8601 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on August 2nd, 2025