Elerd C. "Ed" Rocha

Elerd Rocha, resident of Eureka, passed away on Friday, October 22, 2010. Born on January 23, 1932, in Tracy, California, he was the second of five children. In 1937, when his father's dairy ranch was destroyed by flooding, the family relocated permanently to Newman, California. His father was able to purchase land and rebuild the ranch, which, through hard work, soon grew into a successful family-run business. Love of family and hard work defined Elerd's life at an early age. Elerd graduated from Orestimba High School in 1950 and attended Modesto Junior College where he studied agriculture. In 1952, he enlisted in the Coast Guard and was sent to duty at Humboldt Lifeboat Station. While stationed in Eureka he met his first wife, Margaret. They were married in 1954. After being discharged two years later, Elerd and his growing family settled in Arcata. Elerd worked as an independent electrician for general contractors all around the Humboldt area. Known as a hard worker and someone who's always willing to help, he took calls at all hours of the day or night to help someone in need. When he wasn't working, Elerd enjoyed spending time with his six children and nine grandchildren. In recent years, Elerd enjoyed traveling, having taken trips to Europe, Texas, and the Azores. His greatest passion, however, was gardening. From early spring until late fall, Elerd spent countless hours in his garden. Nothing gave him more pleasure than to share his produce with others, often showing up on the doorstep of a friend or family member with bags of fruits and vegetables. Elerd will always be remembered and loved for his hard work and generous spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lucy; his first wife of 36 years, Margaret; and his second wife of 10 years, Elke. He is survived by his children David, Sheri, Dale, Ken, Scott, and Marla; his grandchildren Brooke, Jamie, Stacie, Danielle, Brad, Liese, Katherine, Alexis, and Jack; his six great-grandchildren; his step-son Gehry; and siblings Joseph, Mary Jane, Eddie, and Marlene. Funeral services will be held at St. Mary's Church on Janes Road in Arcata on Wednesday, October 27th at 11:00 a.m. A private burial will follow. Friends and family are invited to Elerd's home after the service to help celebrate his life. Elerd's home address is 2257 Arbutus in Cutten, near Murphy's Market. In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution in Elerd's name can be given to a favorite charity. Please sign the guest book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.