Philip (Phil) Joseph DeCocco died on Wednesday, August 30 at Mt. Sinai St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital in New York city, surrounded by loved ones. He was 79.

Phil was born on Feb. 20, 1938 in Schenectady, N.Y. to Theresa (Strianese) and Joseph DeCocco. He grew up in a hardworking blue-collar family. His intelligence and drive to succeed were evident early in life when he earned his Eagle Scout at the age of 13 and later as a student at the College of the Holy Cross, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. After college he embarked on a long and successful career in the field of human resources consulting. He held senior roles with General Electric and International Playtex before founding his own consulting business, Sturges House. The business flourished under his leadership and he gained a reputation as an innovative thinker in the field of human resources. His reputation as a consummate professional and straight shooter with a gift for delivering tough messages in a caring, thoughtful manner made him well respected and well liked by all those lucky enough to work with him.

He had a wonderful sense of humor, a sharp wit and was gifted in both the musical and culinary arts. An outstanding cook and master bread maker, he delighted guests with gourmet meals and delicacies of all kinds. He seemed most at home when sharing time with family and friends in the kitchen. After cooking a delicious meal he often played the piano and serenaded his guests. It was always a treat to sit and hear him perform wonderful renditions of jazz standards and classical pieces. He was a most gracious host with a generous heart and a kind smile.

Phil and his soul mate, Patricia (Patty) Murray enjoyed 43 years together. They traveled the world, Phil using his highly skilled eye for photography to capture in striking detail the settings and faces of each journey. Returning home was equally as gratifying as they maintained a beautiful residence in Ft. Myers, Fla. A longtime dream was realized when they bought their home, It’s About Time, in Edgartown. This location became a special place for Phil and Patty and their family and friends for over 40 years. Many good times and special memories were created there.

Phil is survived by his wife, Patty, his son Philip DeCocco of Carmel, Calif., his daughter Ann Rodriquez of Denver, Colo., his son Joseph DeCocco of Bogart, Ga., his daughter Jennifer Montville of Brookfield, Conn., his daughter Carrie Zaslow of Brookfield, Conn., his son Nick DeCocco of Brighton, Colo., his sister Carol DeLorenzo of Schenectady, N.Y., and his grandchildren Isabelle and Philip DeCocco of Carmel, Calif., Nick and Matt Caruolo of Denver, Colo., Isabella, Julianna and Marcella DeCocco of Bogart, Ga., Jacqueline, Julia and Jessica Montville of Brookfield, Conn., Steven and Danny Berryman of Brookfield, Conn., and Emilia and Luciano DeCocco of Brighton, Colo.

Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the College of the Holy Cross, Gift in Memory of Phil DeCocco, Class of 1960.