As reported by the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle:
Albert DeCanzio Jr., a prominent figure during the heyday of Rochester’s mob, died Dec. 28 at the age of 70.
DeCanzio, a “soldier” in mob hierarchy parlance, was a bodyguard for Frank Valenti, the man who helped build a Mafia presence in Rochester during the 1960s and 1970s.
DeCanzio was imprisoned for murder in 1976, and left prison almost 20 years later.
However, after being freed in the mid-1990s, DeCanzio found local work — including contracting jobs — and did not return to crime, as did several local mobsters once freed from jail.
In talks with a Democrat and Chronicle reporter, DeCanzio said he kept his distance from any of his allies — or opponents — from mob days.
Greg Quail, who has compiled records documenting Rochester’s mob history, met with DeCanzio multiple times over the past year, including Christmas Eve.
DeCanzio, who was previously married and has a daughter, spoke of his love for his family, especially his grandchildren, Quail said.
Distancing himself from that era, DeCanzio, who lived in Gates, also chastised those who started discussions with him about the Rochester Mafia history.
“That’s why he never wanted to go out,” Quail said.
“He just lived quietly.”
GCRAIG@DemocratandChronicle.com
Twitter.com/gcraig1
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