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Floyd "Rocky" Rockenbach

FUNERAL HOME

Smith Mortuary - Derby Chapel

1415 N. Rock Rd.

Derby, Kansas

Floyd Rockenbach Obituary

DERBY - Rockenbach, Floyd "Rocky," 78, retired English teacher, died Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2014. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Lucille; sister, Doris; son, Matt. Survivors include his wife, Norma; children, Tami Jacobs of Tampa, FL, Terry Lee Rockenbach of New Orleans, LA, Mark Colby of Derby; 3 grandchildren. Viewing 2-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014, with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Smith Mortuary, 1415 N. Rock Rd. Funeral service 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 26, 2014, Woodlawn United Methodist Church, 431 S. Woodlawn, Derby. Memorials are established with Woodlawn United Methodist Church and Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice. View tributes at smithfamilymortuaries.com

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Published by Wichita Eagle on Sep. 24, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Floyd Rockenbach

36 Entries

Leslie Friesen

November 17, 2014

I was thinking about Floyd Rockenbach this weekend. He was my freshman English teacher when I was a student at Clay Center Community High School. He was an excellent teacher. I still remember him even though that class was many years ago.

Linda Wyssman - Chase, Derby Class of 1990

October 2, 2014

Mr. Rockenbach was one of my favorite teachers, I will always remember him. Now that I am a teacher, I know why he was my favorite and why I remember him so well. He was a special person and was able to connect with students and everyone he met. "Rocky" will be missed greatly. Heaven has received a very outstanding angel. May God bless him and his family.

Jo Ellen (Parker) Ryder, Derby Class 1981

September 28, 2014

Mr. Rockenbach had a flair for teaching and a way of connecting with his students. I missed my opportunity to have him as my English teacher, but his knowledge was shared with many. Blessings and comfort to his family during this difficult time.

Gary Lunkenheimer, Ph.D.

September 26, 2014

I was very sorry to hear of Mr. Rockenbach's passing. I had him for English my Junior year at DHS and his class was really the first time I ever learned proper grammar. I always appreciated him for teaching me. It is amazing the lives that teachers touch. Sincerely,

Lisa Martin (Heath)

September 25, 2014

I'm sorry to hear of Rocky's passing. I had him for both Eng Lit and Mythology (grad '85) and to this day he clearly stands out as an amazing teacher. I learned so much more in his classes than just the course content. I was blessed to have learned from him.

Terri Lane

September 25, 2014

A bright light has gone out in our world. "Rocky" was an awesome teacher and mentor. He had a way of touching and inspiring even those he merely passed in the halls. He will be remembered fondly for decades to come by the throngs of Panthers he touched in so many ways throughout the years. Class of '83

Shawn Muth

September 25, 2014

Mr Rockenbach was the inspiration for my love of literature. He used the term KISS (keep it sime stupid) and that stuck with me for nearly 30 years! May you shine in our Lords glory Mr. Rockenbach and thank you for inspiring our young minds!

September 25, 2014

Norma and family- you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss; Uncle Rocky was loved by all, and will be missed. Wishing you strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Love from Dave, Laurie, Lindsay and Maddy McDonald.

Dee Repass

September 25, 2014

Tami, I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. Death can take away the physical body but nothing can take away the memories. Praying for you and your family.

A picture of Rocky from the YOUTHVILLE storybook on their web site

Ed Belsan

September 25, 2014

I got to know Rocky from the annual cookouts John Kennedy has held on his farm. What a joy to reminisce with a dedicated teacher from the "previous generation." I was impressed with his knowledge, fire, and compassion toward students. -Ed Belsan, Derby High School English teacher, 2000 through 2014 to ?

Valerie Worley

September 25, 2014

My condolences go out to the Rochenbach family. I was saddened to hear of his passing. I had him English class at Derby High School and he was a great teacher, full of enthusiasm for the topic and the students. Class of 1974

My condolences to the Family.

Valerie Worley

September 25, 2014

We are so saddened for the loss of a great man and educator. Mr. Rockenbach gave so much to each of us. He will forever be in our hearts. - Class of 1996

Kevin and Julie Seal

September 24, 2014

So saddened to hear of the passing of Rocky Rockenbach. He was a wonderful teacher and has touched the life of so many. Prayers for the Rockenbach family as you grieve the loss of such a kind spirited man.

Jennifer Neel

September 24, 2014

Mr. Rockenbach was an incredible educator & kind soul. I will always remember him as the teacher who always went above & beyond. We were all blessed to of had such a great person in our lives. Until we meet again... Prayers for all those missing him tonight...and tomorrow

Michael Ring

September 24, 2014

One of my favorite teachers and neighbors... You taught me a lot Mr. Rockenbach. You had a gift of teaching, making learning a fun experience. Thanks for everything! Thoughts and prayers go out to Mark and family.

Virgil Ballard

September 24, 2014

Sorry to hear of Mr.Rockenbach's passing. I hated English Lit before I had him as a teacher. That all changed because of him. The great teachers have a way of doing that very thing. My condolences to his family and thanks for sharing him with the many students that he had a tremendous influence on.

Kevin Sexton

September 24, 2014

Mr. Rockenbach was a great teacher and even better mentor. He was the best teacher I ever had. It has been 36 years since he taught me mythology, English, and just how to be a good person and passionate about the best things in life. He made me want to be in class and taught me the joy of reading. I considered him my friend. So many of us who were blessed to have him as a teacher will miss him greatly. Rest in Peace my friend and may God Bless your family.

Jim Brown

September 24, 2014

Praying for all of you and remembering thankfully the fun time learning in has classes. Class of 1982.

September 24, 2014

Dear Norma and family,
Know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers. Our deepest sympathy to you. Jerry and Valerie Nordberg and Priscilla Kleymann

Teri Miller

September 24, 2014

My condolences to Norma and family. Prayers lifted for those family members traveling and for comfort in each other during this difficult time.

kathleen keller

September 24, 2014

2009 DSH Faculty Reunion in Derby, Ks posted separately.

2009 Reunion DSH Faculty in Derby

September 24, 2014

Prayers of comfort for his wife, extended family and friends. Rocky and I taught English together at Derby Senior High in the 1970s. He was a respected teacher, and much loved by his students. I'm glad you're at peace, Rocky: home, healed, and safe. AMEN.

Harry Simpson

September 24, 2014

Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.

Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.

Thank you for your service to this nation.

September 24, 2014

Prayers said for the family, I am sure he will be missed. He was a good teacher and a good person.

Brian, Rebekka, Ginger & Grant Geddeis

September 24, 2014

Rocky was a wonderful friend and will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers for your family and all friends in this time of sorrow.

David Thomas

September 24, 2014

For me Mr. Rockenbach was that one teacher that stands out, even 25 years later.He helped me discover my love for mythology and I thank him for that.

Shelley Duncan

September 24, 2014

We were so blessed at Youthville to get to know Rocky. He was a wonderful man, a wonderful ambassador for us and the many children we served. We will miss him and his generosity and humble spirit!

Yvette Wells

September 24, 2014

I had "Rocky" for Mythology. I am pretty convinced that I NEVER paid as much attention in a class, as I did that one. He made learning fun! Always looked forward to his smile as we walked into the classroom. You will be missed Mr Rockenbach. Godspeed!

Michelle Reese

September 24, 2014

Thank you for all you taught me not only about english and mythology but also about life! you were the best!! my love and prayers to the family and friends. May God give you peace and comfort.

Nina Somers

September 24, 2014

Rocky was a sweet man. He was one of my favorite customers at Dillons. I enjoyed seeing him come into the store. He will be truly missed

Becky Richardson

September 24, 2014

No words can ease your pain but hopefully prayers will. May God see your every need and sooth you.

Angelia Reed

September 24, 2014

He taught greek mythology way back when at the old Derby High School. One of my favorite classes and all time favorite teachers. I remember his 1 inch by 1 inch "cheat sheets" he let us have on test days! So sorry for the loss. Angelia (Burgardt) Reed

Chris Mccandless

September 24, 2014

Mr. Rockenbach was one of the best teachers I ever had. He made English an interesting subject.

Kath Van Winkle Platzer

September 24, 2014

Rocky was a wonderful teacher and an even better neighbor. We lived down the street from him for 10 years. On occasion our 150 lb dog would break the fence and escape, always in the early morning. Rocky would show up at our door, in his house robe, with our big dog in tow. The kindness he showed to the 3 little boys down the street was an example of his enormous giving personality. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He will be missed. Van Winkle Platzer family

September 23, 2014

Rocky was such a sweet man. My family was blessed to have known him. He always put a smile on my face. Whether it was stopping by to say hi, talk about cactus or bringing me flowers from his garden. He will be missed. Our condolences to Norma and family.
Jason, Lana, Gavin and Carson Childre

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