John M. "Jack" Roche

John “Jack” Roche, 65, of Rockford passed away May 13, 2015. Jack was born on September 8, 1949 to his parents Peter and Alexia Roche. Jack was a fun-loving people-person his entire life. He loved sports, adventure, and his family and friends. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, cousin, friend, colleague, mentor, and coach. Jack was an incredibly skilled golfer, earning him a college scholarship to the University of Illinois. He was also a passionate soccer coach, coaching his son’s team for over 10 years. Jack loved outdoor activities, even yard work. He had an incredible spirit for competition, which he shared with his daughter. He took every opportunity to help others grow in their lives and careers.
Jack graduated from Boylan Catholic High School in 1967 and Northern Illinois University with honors in 1971, the same year he married the love of his life and golfing partner, Carol. Jack had a successful 40 year career as a CPA. He owned and operated his business, Roche and Associates, for over 20 years and ended his career as a partner at Wipfli. Jack will be deeply missed by everyone that knew him, including his wife, Carol Roche; daughter and her husband, Evan and Jacqueline (Roche) Buschmann; Brothers and sister-in-laws, Peter and Sandra Roche, Richard Roche, Susan Roche, and Ronald and Alice Rehberg; Nieces and Nephews, Scot and Angela Roche, Michael and Lisa Roche Berlage, Michael Roche, Daniel and Nikaline Roche, Steven and Ariel Roche, and Laura Roche; and his special buddies Lili and Elli. Predeceased by his parents, Peter and Alexia Roche and son, Michael Roche.
Memorial Mass 11:30am Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd. Visitation from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 18, 2015 at Fitzgerald’s Funeral Home & Crematory (Mulford Chapel), 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Visitation to continue from 10:30 until the time of Mass Tuesday at church. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.fitzgeraldfh.com