A Tribute to Our Father, Carlo Di Ruocco

“When you meet Carlo you have a sense that you are in the presence of nobility, despite his humble beginnings. I believe this comes to Carlo effortlessly, not because of high self-regard, although he is wise enough to appreciate what he has accomplished, but through his deep commitment to the craft to which he has devoted his life’s work.

Carlo has accomplished what he has not out of desire for the things that we all love, but because of an almost devout respect for them.”

The above words were written by Tim Castle, a coffee professional, writer, and someone who has known the family for more than 40 years. It is an excerpt of his introduction when our Father became a recipient of the 2015 Alfred Peet Passionate Cup award, given by the Specialty Coffee Association of America.

People have said a lot of nice things about our Father over the years, but this is one of the most exceptional, beautiful descriptions  – not just because it’s such high praise, but because it’s so precise – and captures the essence of who our Father was as a person. He cared deeply about everything he was passionate about. He didn’t do things halfway. 

This drive and determination to seek out and create a life where he was completely in control of his destiny, undeterred by obstacles, while doing so with humility, and integrity, is what made him Carlo Di Ruocco. Bucking the norms – seeking success without seeking attention, and doing so without pretension.

We were lucky to have him as a Father – this larger than life figure – who out in the real world, known as a legend, an icon – but at home he was just Dad, or Nonno.  

At work he kind of shifted between being a hands-off, lead-by-example person – versus the complete opposite, the type of person who will explain to you in 5 specific steps how to properly sweep the floor. If you’ve ever worked for him, you know that when he talked, you listened.

But whether you worked for him, or were a friend, you’ve also probably felt the grace of his generosity – especially when it came to his enthusiasm to share his life experiences and things he was enthralled about. Clearly he was a busy man, but he always had time for you.

But on a personal level, away from work – he cared for little else except the well-being of his family, and whatever made us happy, made him happy.  

We are extremely fortunate, that despite him having left us – that we are able to walk in his footsteps every day.  He is leaving a big void in our hearts and lives. We can only hope that his memory will proudly live on through us.

To read more about Carlo’s life and legacy, please follow the links below: