Former Jimmy's Grotto Owner Dies at Age 74
Former Waukesha man and violin maker also worked as horse ranch manager and breed for several ranches in Texas and Oklahoma.
Roland “Rocky” Werning, of Norman, OK, formerly of Waukesha, died on Monday, Jan. 14, 2013 at the age of 74 years. He was born in Waukesha on May 21, 1938 the son of Albert and Joyce (nee Wright) Werning. Rocky was a 1956 graduate of Waukesha High School. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. On Dec. 19, 1977, he married Maria Lattanzio at the Evangelical & Reformed United Church of Christ in Waukesha. Rocky owned and operated Jimmy’s Grotto from 1958 until 1972. He then went on to work as a horse ranch manager and breeder for various horse ranches in Texas and Oklahoma. Rocky’s greatest love and passion was for his work as a luthier for his violin-making business where he was very well known and respected. He will be…
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Ada
8:34 pm on Sunday, February 3, 2013
Rocky was the maker of my viola and a good friend. I am saddened that I was not aware of his passing sooner. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wife and young daughter. Everytime I play on my viola I think of his talent and friendship. Everytime I would come to his studio I would plan to spen at least 45 min or more to talk and enjoy the instruments in his care. He would always show me his … more ›