“Rocky’s Pasties” of Wharton Turns 100
Published on June 28, 2024
Beloved Pasty Shop Celebrates Centennial in Morris County
Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith presented a resolution of honor on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners today to Rocky’s Pasties for its 100th anniversary.
View More Photos from Rocky’s Centennial Celebration
The County Commissioner, Sheriff James Gannon, Mayor Bill Chegwidden, and representatives on behalf of U.S. Tom Kean, Jr. and Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi gathered with others inside the small shop on Robert Street in Wharton to celebrate the historic milestone and praise the fourth-generation family business.
“Rocky's Pasties symbolizes the spirit and traditions of Morris County, intertwining stories of immigration, success, and community in every pasty,” said Smith. “Rocky’s legacy continues through their son and grandson, who maintain the business with the same love, dedication and service as their ancestors, upholding the tradition of operating the store and providing homemade food to the residents of Wharton and beyond.”
The resolution commended the humble beginnings of the shop, which originally was opened as a dry goods store on South Main Street in Wharton by Anna and Andrew Rodkewitz in 1924. The owners, who were of Ukrainian and Polish descent, later moved the shop to Robert Street. They named it “Rocky’s” after their son, Julius “Rocky” Rodkewitz who later married Mary Rekun, also a lifelong Wharton resident.
“Rocky’s has been more than just a business, it has been a cherished part of our community for a century,” said William J. Chegwidden, mayor of Wharton. “Their dedication to quality and tradition has brought joy to residents and visitors alike.”
Rocky’s owners were given the recipes for pasties by the Cornish miners who had emigrated to the area at the turn of the century to work in the iron mines around Wharton. Wharton was then known as Port Oram, serving as a station on the Morris Canal that was transporting iron at the time.
“I know of some local businesses that have been running for a long time, but there aren’t many family businesses who can say they’ve been doing it for 100 years. I know your dad and your relatives are all up there today saying, ‘Job well done, Tom.’ This is more than pasties, this is a community center,” said Sheriff Gannon.
“For a century, your family has been an integral part of our community, providing us with delicious handmade Cornish-style pasties which have become a beloved staple here in Wharton,” said Senator Anthony M. Bucco in a letter congratulating the family. “Your unique role in our community is truly invaluable.”
Nicholas Henry, Field Representative for Congressman Kean was present to congratulate the family on their longevity in what may be considered a tough business. “Rocky’s is a testament to the enduring spirit of the local mom and pop business, and the cultural heritage of Wharton,” he said.
Rocky passed away in 2012 and Mary in 2019. Their son Tom Rodkewitz continues to run the store with his son Brandon Rodkewitz. They both thanked the Borough of Wharton and the Morris County community for all the support throughout the years, describing what an honor it is to carry on the family tradition instilled in them from Rocky.
“Thanks to Rocky for his lifelong commitment, his generosity to the community and his stubborn dedication. His quiet steady persistence through ups and downs was an incredible example for us and the entire family. Customers still come in decades later to share stories and talk about what a good man he was,” said Brandon Rodkewitz.
“And thanks to my family here today for keeping the ovens running and the doors open. We’re very much a team effort and are so grateful that people still come and enjoy our pasties. After 100 years we’ve got our recipe and process pretty much figured out and that’s what people enjoy. We’ll see you all again in 2124,” said Tom Rodkewitz.
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Photo 1: Commissioner Deborah Smith and the Rodkewitz family business.