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Joseph DeRoma Jr.

1935 - 2023

Joseph DeRoma Jr. obituary, 1935-2023, Santa Rosa, CA

BORN

1935

DIED

2023

FUNERAL HOME

Eggen & Lance Chapel - Santa Rosa

1540 Mendocino Ave.

Santa Rosa, California

Joseph DeRoma Obituary

Joseph DeRoma, Jr.
August 24, 1935 - November 4, 2023
In Loving Memory of Joseph Henry DeRoma, Jr.

Joseph ("Joe") Henry DeRoma, Jr. passed away on November 4th, 2023, at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a life well-lived. He was born on August 24, 1935, the beloved son of Joseph Henry DeRoma, Sr. and Emeline Wood DeRoma.

Joe grew up in Walpole, Massachusetts, where he excelled academically and athletically. On his high school football team, he earned the nickname "Jet Joe," and he would also captain the hockey team. He would go on to major in history at Boston University, where he met his first true love, Susan("Sukie") Coffin. Joe graduated from U.S. Naval Officer Candidate School, and he and Susan began their life together while Joe was serving aboard the U.S.S. Caliente in the Pacific. Joe and Susan would go on to welcome three sons: Joseph III, Silas, and Tristram. Joe's family was the light of his life, and he shared with them his wisdom, his wit, and his boundless love.

After serving his tour in the Navy, Joe began a long and distinguished career in the insurance industry, working his way up from claims adjuster and then to COO and interim CEO of a major insurance firm on the East Coast and even starting his own consulting firm. Along the way, Joe established himself as a trusted resource in the industry and a dear friend to many. Joe and Susan looked forward to a relaxing retirement after leaving the insurance world; however, their time together was cut short by Susan's untimely passing.

After several years, Joe was fortunate to find his second true love, Colette Hatch. Together, Joe and Colette forged a bond that brought comfort and happiness into their life in Santa Rosa, California. As he had so many times before, Joe was fortunate to make many deep and lasting friendships in Santa Rosa, and he spoke fondly of his many friends and experiences there.

Joseph Henry DeRoma, Jr. is survived by his three children, Joseph III, Silas, and Tristram. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Ann Bradley, with whom he shared a close and cherished bond throughout their lives. Their enduring relationship was a testament to the importance of family in Joe's life.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth for his cherished grandchildren who brought him immense joy and pride, Savannah, Joseph IV, and Paxton; as well as Brendan and Gavin and their mother Dr. Edith Ramsdell. His memory will live on in the hearts of these young souls, as they continue to be inspired by their grandfather's love, wit, and wisdom.

Joseph Henry DeRoma, Jr. will be remembered for his dedication, love, and the kindness he shared with the lives of those he touched. His memory will forever be cherished, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services and remembrances will be shared at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association in Joe's honor.

May he rest in eternal peace.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Press Democrat on Nov. 14, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph DeRoma

Sponsored by Eggen & Lance Chapel - Santa Rosa.

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4 Entries

Ruthanne

November 8, 2025

Joe was a great friend to both my husband Sam and me. We worked together for several years at Travelers Insurance. Over the years we kept in touch through postcards and telephone conversations. His humor is a memory we remember most. May his memory serve as a blessing.

Jean and Ralph Parks

July 25, 2025

We have many fond memories of Joe when he lived next door to us and to Norma. He was a wonderful friend and companion, and we would dine together often, sharing our thoughts and reflections. Our lives are richer having known him. Rest in peace, Dear Friend. Jean and Ralph

EDWARD BENVENISTE

April 10, 2024

JOE WAS MY MANAGER AT THE TRAVELERS INSURANCE COMPANY IN 1974. We became life long friends and spoke monthly. A beautiful human being and kind gentle man. I was blessed knowing him and had almost a 45 year friendship with him
He will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, my dear Captain. Love Edward

Dominique Cortara

December 13, 2023

Oh Joe!
I am sad that I won't be able to have coffee with you anymore.
You had the funniest sense of humor and took such good care of Colette
I am honored to have known you and to have spent some time in your company.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Eggen & Lance Chapel - Santa Rosa

1540 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95401

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