John Kevin Roche

In Loving Memory of John Kevin Roche

John K. Roche, beloved husband, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, friend, sports enthusiast, traveler, and music lover, passed away at the age of 70 after battling cancer for almost a year.  John was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Jackie Roche, and his brother, Dennis Roche.  He is survived by his beloved wife, Kelly; his brothers, Brian Roche, Tim Roche (Mary); sister, Maureen Welch (Joe). He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Karen Campbell (Shane), Kathy Sturges (Doug) and his brothers-in-law, Kevin Kramnic (Colleen), Kyle Kramnic (Csilla); along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

John shared 48 wonderful years of marriage with Kelly. Their life together was filled with love, laughter, friendship, travel and adventure. They shared a special love for the beach and island life and that love became a reflection of the life they created.  Travel was one of John and Kelly‘s greatest joys. They traveled to Hawaii more than 40 times and enjoyed many cruises and trips around the US and Mexico. Hawaii became more than a favorite destination; it was a special part of their life together. John loved the ocean, the warmth, the relaxed island atmosphere, and the memories they made there. He also loved camping, fishing and spending time with friends, always happiest when surrounded by people he cared for.

Music was another important part of John’s life. He had a particular love for Jimmy Buffett and attended many of his concerts. The music, the island spirit, and the carefree feeling of a good Jimmy Buffett concert perfectly captured something John loved about life. For John, music was about more than listening, it was about the experiences, the people and in the memories that came with it.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, John’s passion for sports began in childhood and never faded. Growing up, he enjoyed playing baseball, going fishing, watching horse racing, and boxing, he loved playing the odds. He was a devoted fan of the SF Giants and 49ers and season ticket holder of the Sacramento Kings. His love of sports also led him to become an avid collector of sports memorabilia, surrounding himself with reminders of the teams, athletes, and moments he loved.

John attended Presentation Catholic School, Mira Loma High School, where he played baseball, and Sacramento State. He worked at Crystal Creamery for 25 years until medical issues led to his retirement.

John lived life with an appreciation for the things that mattered most to him-his marriage to Kelly, his family, friends and his devotion to God as a member of St. Clare’s Catholic Church in Roseville. He faced life with optimism and a generous spirit, always finding a reason to laugh and enjoy the moment. Even most recently, he went to his doctor appts with a smile, engaging the nurses and doctors with his infectious humor and wit.  He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His laughter, kindness, stories, and unforgettable spirit will live on in the many lives he touched.