Michelle Rochwarger

My 87 year old father is very ill. I am searching for comfort to know he won't suffer long and that all will be well. In my search for comfort, Michelle comes to mind. We haven't spoken in probably 8 years--but in times like this I want to reach out to her. I had no idea she had passed away and I am so sad for her loss. She was a light, a source of inspiration and hope, and comfort. My heart is with her and her family.

Did my eyes blink to fast, time moves on. Yet time stands still when I think of my Cousin Michelle. I may not have seen or talked to her often. There was just a connection of hearts. I miss her. I look at her picture everyday as it in my kitchen. She give me strength when I feel weak. She had the ability to reach into people's hearts and make them what to be better person.

As we approach December 12, a day I will never forget and never have like the day she was born on March 7, my heart pounds hard like a tribal drum. I miss her. Yesterday I was just looking at a picture of us in my home office. She lived right next door before her move to Woodbury. Michelle was an example of a Godly woman to me. You run across one or two people in your lifetime like Michelle and it was an honor and privilege to spend walks and talks with her. I was lucky, I was not of her...

This is what Michelle Meant to me and a few characteristics of her personality

Her kind words filled my spirit daily
Her smile brought joy to the world around her
Her heart was pure, you couldn't find anyone with a larger heart even if you tried
Her love of her company and it's employees, who were more like family
Her passion to heal and aid others around her
Her communication skills were flawless
Her love for travel and search for fun was unmatched
Her strength...

We just learned of Michelle's passing today. I had sent a Christmas card to Michelle, Joshua, Jeremy and Rebecca and Debbie was kind enough to get in touch with us to let us know. To saw we are shocked is not enough. We felt like a wave of sadness rushed over us. Michelle stood for everything kind in this world. When you talked to MIchelle she listened. She bonded with everyone and she had such a deep sense of caring to her that made you feel special to be her friend. We first met with...

It has been almost a year and I miss my beautiful, kind, loving friend so much. I know she is in a better place, keeping everyone loved as she did here on earth. I truly miss her, and I think of her every day. Finally, I am able to write and say: Michelle I will always love you and cherish our friendship, you have a very special place in my heart.
Rest in Peace my beautiful friend

I just heard the sad news about Michelle. I had the pleasure of working with her and getting to know her both at Omega and at Strategic Resources. What a sweet, good soul! This is so sad. My thoughts and pratyers go out to her family and friends!

My sympathy to Michelle's family and friends on behalf of the faculty and staff of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's School of Social Work. Michelle received her B.S. in Social Work in 1977. It was very gratifying to read about her work on behalf of women and the community.

Mel Morgenbesser
Alumni Relations
School of Social Work
University of Wisconsin-Madison

I knew Michelle many, many years ago at the University of Wisconsin. We were friends and over the years I've often thought of her and the many hours we spent smoking cigarettes and having ice cream at the deli on State Street. I was so saddened to see the little note in the alumni newsletter that arrived today in the mail. My thoughts and prayers go out to Michelle's family.