Obituaries

Francis Xavier O’Rourke Jr.

Francis “Sonny” Xavier O’Rourke Jr., raised in Riverhead, died April 6 at his home in Marysville, Pa. He was 69.

He was born July 7, 1941, in Queens to Alice (McAvoy) and Francis O’Rourke Sr.

He worked for Conestoga Ceramic Tile Distributors in Harrisburg, Pa., until his retirement. Recently, he worked for Fisher Auto Parts of Lemoyne, Pa.

According to his family, Mr. O’Rourke was an all-star pitcher for several fast-pitch softball teams and was credited with over 200 wins. He also coached both Little League and Pop Warner Youth Football. Family members said he was an avid New York Mets and Giants fan, and he “loved good music and fast cars.”

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Virginia “Ginger” (Hills); his sons, E. Michael Beni and Terrence, both of Riverhead; Francis III, of Las Vegas; Patrick, of Shirley; and Kevin, of Taos, N.M.; his daughter, Cindy Hynds of Riverhead; his siblings, Willa Fry, Sharon Prevost and Roary, all of Florida; and five grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held Saturday, April 16, from noon to 1 p.m. at Michael J. Shalonis Funeral Home in Marysville, where a memorial service will follow, officiated by Deacon James J. Rush. Interment will be private.

Donations may be made to the Town of Riverhead, 200 Howell Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901, to support Stotzky Park.