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Note: Born in Italy. Came to USA about 1919. A vigorous and responsible citizen, Rocco Martell has made a name for himself through the building of beautiful homes and sturdy commercial buildings in the vicinity of Peons Grove. His reputation has caused him to be called upon lately for much of the repair work being done to the Du Pont company houses in Carneys Point village. Mr. Martell was born on March 10, 1909, in the Province of Chieti, on the Adriatic in southern Italy, a spot of which both his parents were also natives; he is the son of Silvio and Livia (Tocco) Martell, both of whom are still living. His father came to the United States in 1913. His mother and two brothers, Nicola and Dindo, came to the United States with him when he was ten years old. He was then enrolled in the public schools of Penns Grove, and completed the eighth grade. Later he took night courses in architectural drawing at the South Philadelphia High School and at the Central Young Men's Christian Association night school in Philadelphia. Along with his school work he was occupied with his father in learning from him the trade of carpentry. In 1928, he went to Philadelphia, working for various building contractors, and attending the night school. In 1932 he started in business for himself, as a building contractor engaged in public and private construction over a range of fifteen miles of Penns Grove. In his work he has employed as many as one hundred men. Though his business is just entering its second decade, his buildings have already made a definite contribution to the appearance of the community. He is active in social and community organizations, is a member of the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the Sons of Italy. On June 8, 1935, Rocco Martell married Ida Ulissi, daughter of Giovanni and Lucy Ulissi, both natives of Italy. They are communicants of the St. James Roman Catholic Church in Penns Grove, and are the parents of three children: 1. Silvio, born June 11, 1936. 2. Rosemarie, born December 30, 1940. 3. Elizabeth, born July 20, 1942.
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