George Dewey Roche Jr.

Portsmouth, RI - George D. "Dewey" Roche, Jr., 66, of 2121 West Main Road, Portsmouth, RI, died unexpectedly Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at home. Born in Fall River, MA on March 12, 1943, he was the son of the late George Dewick and Joyce (Sherman) Roche. Dewey had many talents and abilities, not the least was making people laugh with his unique sense of humor. He was a carpenter, builder, bridge worker, working on the Newport Bridge many years ago. Dewey attended De La Salle Academy and graduated from Rogers High School, he attended the University of Rhode Island and was a graduate of New England Technical Institute. In his youth he excelled in baseball and the rifle club at De La Salle. Playing golf with his friends and family was his favorite pastime. Dewey spent his winters working in Florida with his good friend Michael Landers. He also enjoyed spending time with his friend Sue Reed. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his son, David A. Roche of Hamden, CT; his daughter, Julie Roche of Thornville, Ohio; his sisters, Shirley Mello of Middletown, RI, Suzanne Sousa of Tiverton, RI, Syndee Schaeffer of Newport, RI, and Stefani Roche of Portsmouth, RI; two grandchildren, Marcus Roche and Alexis Roche and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was the father of the late George D. "Gig" Roche, III. A memorial service is planned at a date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the National Kidney Foundation.