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John Rosch Obituary
August 30, 1936 - September 29, 2020
Bellingham, Washington - John Paul Willette Rosch, age 84, lost his long battle with cancer Monday September 29, 2020. Known by many names - JR, "Crash", "the old lumber man", "Big Papa", and his favorite name of all, "Dad".
Our Dad was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota in 1936, the family moved with the Railroad out to Anacortes when he was about 4, and then to Bellingham when he was 12, where he has resided since. John actually rode his horse from Anacortes to the new family home on Northwest Road in Bellingham. Dad attended Assumption School where he also served as an alter boy, then Bellingham High School, attended Western Washington State College and the University of Washington.
John has often said what a lucky man he was to have been born in this country and do so many things. The most important to him was his family and no one could outwork JR, first as a young boy delivering firewood to the tenants of his parents apartment house and was still working until quite recently. He was a member of the Boy Scouts, the Sea Scouts and the Naval Reserves where he was called to active duty in 1961 at the start of the Vietnam War, serving on the USS Charles E. Brannon of the Pacific Fleet.
"Crash" was a member of the Chuckanut Sports Car Club since the 1950's, John enjoyed racing and wrenching his 59 Austin Healys, RX7 autocross car to the most recent project car 1959 Corvette convertible. While he always had beautiful cars it really was all about what was under the hood.
JR enjoyed hunting with his Brittany Spaniel Bird Dogs and raised some good ones, appreciated a good pair of cowboy boots and a good Seahawks game.
John was preceded in death by his son John "Pat" Rosch and granddaughter Cara Rosch. Married in 1959, he is survived by his wife Barbara of the family home, his daughters Lisa (Greg) Guthrie, Melinda (Jeff) Person, 4 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements for a memorial are pending.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Rosch
Gordie Thomas
September 25, 2022
Miss ya buddy! RIP
Shari Mitchell
September 26, 2021
Still missing you, old friend. RIP
Claudia Marsh
October 5, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. One of my favorite customers to wait on at Fairhaven Pharmacy. Rip John.
Sharon E Mitchell
October 5, 2020
It's so difficult to say goodbye to a special friend of over 65 years. Rest in peace John, you did an awesome job while on this earth. My love and condolences to Barb, Mindi and Lisa, and all the friends who loved you. You'll always be missed and remembered.
Lloyd A Ludtke
October 3, 2020
My condolences to the family, I will always remember him with the smile he always had, he was a real gentleman and in my book one of the good guys
Merrie Stewart
October 2, 2020
What a wonderful co worker and friend John was. My condolences to his family.
Rhonda Roe
October 2, 2020
I am truly saddened by the loss of JR. He was such a nice man and fun to be around. Although I haven't seen him for a few years I often thought of JR. He we a good friend to Ron Roe and myself and I know I can speak for Ron that he will truly miss his friend. God speed JR until we see you again.
Rhonda Roe
October 2, 2020
I am very saddened by the news of JR passing. He was always so kind to me and although I lost touch with him he has been on my mind throughout the last few years. He was a really good friend to my ex-husband Ron and a good friend to me as well. He will be sorely missed by so many. God speed JR until we all see you again in heaven.
Laurie Alejandre
October 1, 2020
To JR’s family and friends,
My love, heart and prayers go to all that knew this wonderful man. Good people he was!
Marcia Thomas
October 1, 2020
Many great memories while skating at the Armory in the 50’s. Sincere condolences to the Rosch family.
Gordie Thomas
October 1, 2020
Going to miss you my friend. Rest in peace.
Stephanie Sadler
October 1, 2020
He was a loyal friend to all! If you ever needed help with anything, fixing anything, or moving, he was right beside you! He was a great dad, husband, and person. So many good memories and laughs! You will be missed but not forgotten... Love you, Paul and Steph
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