If there is one family most closely associated with Parkrose, it’s gotta be the Rossis. Joe represents the fourth generation of his family to farm in Parkrose, and their iconic barn on NE 122nd south of Shaver St is probably the most distinctive sight in the whole Parkrose area. Rossi Farms is an active farm that hosts plenty of community events, weddings, and private parties.
Joe is a treasure trove of stories about the last 100+ years in Parkrose and the people who’ve made this place home. His family began farming in the area in 1910, and Joe worked with his dad Aldo near-daily for 38 years from the age of 8. Joe tells the history of Parkrose and its transition from forest to farmland and begins to look ahead after completing the Parkrose-Argay Development Study he invited me to participate in.
Joe has always been a community connector, and he’s taken on many roles in the neighborhood including football coach, philanthropist, board member, and great party host. He remains deeply involved in supporting after-school programs and projects that improve and support the community of Parkrose. His family history in the area (and how well he’s remembered it from photos and stories passed down) and his personal involvement, as a continuation of his father Aldo’s legacy, give Joe a truly unique perspective of Parkrose: past, present, and future.
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In 1961, Ado Rossi sold my parents the house on 112 th where our Zarosinski family grew up. I believe it was the house he grew up in. Parkrose was a great place to grow up. Loved the remembrances about Senn’s Dairy down 112 th from our home. St. Rita church and school was a big part of the Parkrose community, too. thanks for an enjoyable podcast.