Michael Rocha

Michael Rocha

1955 - 2025

Michael "Mike" Rocha, age 69, passed away into the arms of Jesus on August 4, 2025, peacefully at his home in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

Born in Plainview, Texas, on August 8, 1955, Michael completed his secondary education at Plainview High School in 1972. That same year, he married Glenda Deaton, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and faith, united for 52 years. In 1977, he completed his studies at Levelland Community College and became a registered Respiratory Therapist-a profession to which he would dedicate the next thirty-five years of his life.

Mike's career as a respiratory therapist was marked by compassion and excellence. He served not only as a skilled medical professional but also as a professor and advisor, sharing his knowledge generously with others. His work took him across the country for a time, allowing him to combine his passion for healthcare with his love of travel.

In 1992, Mike and Glenda made their home in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. There, he continued to serve his community through his medical work while also cultivating a rich personal life centered around family and faith. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Mike found joy in nurturing both plants and people. His garden flourished under his care just as surely as did the lives of those around him-especially his beloved grandchildren, whom he loved unconditionally.

Mike honored his Lord and Savior through acts of service and kindness, offering wisdom and guidance to those who sought it. Whether tending to patients or spending time with family, Mike lived with purpose and grace reflected through his humorous and gentle spirit.

He is survived by his wife of over five decades, Glenda Rocha; daughters Mandie Aalto, son-in-law Dan Aalto, and Jennifer Cowan Rocha, son-in-law Mike Cowan; eight grandchildren; and sisters Cynthia Rocha and Lee Hernandez and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Ernest Rocha and mother Miriam Jiminez.

Mike will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to others-through medicine, mentorship, and teaching-and for the enduring love he gave so freely to his family.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

Arrangements by Libbey Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 520 N.E. 2nd Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, 218-326-4000. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.libbeyfuneralhome.com.