WorldWide Drilling Resource

In Memoriam Francis “Rocky” Milano (1945~2017) The WWDR Team joins gEFCO, Inc. and countless other drilling industry profes- sionals to say goodbye to Francis “Rocky” Milano who passed away on July 11, 2017. After a period of declining health, Rocky went peacefully with the love of his family present. He was a longtime resident of Keene, New Hampshire. Born in Camden, New Jersey, Rocky went to high school in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and later attended the University of Scranton. gEFCO ’s northeast territory was Rocky’s domain for over 13 years. He retired in 2015, after 30 years with the company. A man of integrity, he worked diligently to provide cus- tomers with the best solutions for their drilling needs. Rocky was also a fine mentor to the younger salesmen on his team. One friend remarked that underneath Rocky’s tough exterior, he was a real pussycat. His heart was full of kindness and compassion, and he dearly loved his family and sharing their stories. Rocky also enjoyed photography, stamp and coin col- lecting, and tinkering with cars. Rocky is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Natalie; son Michael; daughters Angela (Jody) and Margaret (James); grandchildren Christy, Nikolas, Crystal, Shyanne, Adriana, and Prestin; and extended family. A personal note from Managing Publisher Veronica I. “Ronnie” Jones . . . As we get older, for some reason we seem to realize our longtime dearest friends are leaving us behind. I speak with many people (most of them of course would be my age), and those friends say, “I cannot believe how many of my friends and relatives are no long around to get answers from, chat with about nothing in particular”, and more. This isn’t any easier no matter how many times it happens in your life. When Kathy, here at WWDR sent me notice of the posting from GEFCO , my heart stopped. He was far too young and such a wonderful person, and many had not had the great opportunity to meet him, I thought. Kathy was also remem- bering the times in her travels she had been able to share a few min- utes with Rocky. How tragic a loss for all. I can remember the first time I met “Rocky”. I had begun working for W. C. “Doc” Faison and he was “showing me the ropes” and introducing me to many of his longtime friends and acquaintances at the New England Water Well show in Marlborough. As he intro- duced me to Rocky, a professional respect was created, and we became lifelong friends. There was another particular event where we had a chance to sit down while I was waiting for a bus and we exchanged conversations about our families. The love and concern for his wife was quite evident. Throughout the years, everyone I know, who knew Rocky, had a great respect, mutual and actually, I believe, admiration for him with his knowledge and “way about himself” that made you in- stantly realize you had a friend for life. He will truly be missed. We hope these photos will bring back fond memories for you. Lest we forget... 16 SEPTEMBER 2017 WorldWide Drilling Resource ®