Michael Roach

Michael David Roach, 85, was called to his heavenly home on October 30 from esophageal cancer. He passed peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.

Mike was born on November 17, 1937 to Walter and Cora (Chevrier) Roach. He grew up in Union Township, and spent the rest of his life in the Eau Claire area.

He pursued many areas of work, including farming. But his greatest achievement was being the head groundskeeper at Hillcrest Country Club for 25 years, where he made many life-long friends. When he retired from Hillcrest, he went to the Eau Claire Country Club, where again, he made his quiet impact on the grounds and the staff.

After retiring for a second time, he spent his time working at St. James Church as the custodian and maintenance man. He also spent many happy hours doing the same thing at Fanny Hill Dinner Theatre and Victorian Inn with his wife, Louise.

Mike was also deeply invested in his Catholic faith, and was always willing to do anything to help his parish. His quiet faith was an example to everyone he met. He spent decades singing in the church choirs and had a wonderful bass voice. He also was a talented banjo and fiddle player, and was much enjoyed at the Roach Family Reunions and St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

Michael is survived by his wife of 24 years, Louise; her children, Andrea Pelloquin and Christy (Kyle) Moen, and also his first wife, Paula, the mother of his 4 children, Jamie (Brooks) Patti, Christine (Steve) White, Michael Jr. (Donna) Roach and Beth (Jim) Perrizo. He is blessed with 12 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, and a sister, Jeanne Lennie. Those who are waiting for him include his mother, Cora; father, Walt; siblings, Tom, John, Bob, Dick, Kay and Betty.

Mike was especially grateful to the nursing staff on the 5th floor of Sacred Heart Hospital, where he spent nearly 2 weeks. They made him laugh and kept him comfortable throughout his stay. Our family is also so grateful for the team from St. Joseph's Home Health and Hospice, who were so compassionate and caring in his final days.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 7 at St. James the Greater Catholic Church, 2502 11th Street, Eau Claire, WI, 54703, with Fr. Tom Krieg officiating. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. up until the mass at the church. Burial will follow at St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery, with a lunch served at St. James immediately after.

Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral & Cremation Services, Eau Claire is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.lenmarkfh.com.