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Dennis Rocheford Obituary
In 1967, after his graduation from Worcester's South High School, he joined the Marine Corps and served for 3 years, including 13 months in Vietnam. He received 2 Purple Heart medals and was awarded a Bronze Star for gallantry in action. After returning from Vietnam, he attended Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester and earned a bachelor's degree from University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
He studied for the priesthood at St. John's Seminary in Brighton and was ordained a priest by Bishop Bernard J. Flanagan at St. Paul's Cathedral on June 18, 1977. He later joined the Naval Chaplain Corps serving in numerous military campaigns including Operation Iraqi Enduring Freedom.
Fr. Dennis began his service to the Diocese of Worcester at St. Camillus de Lellis Parish in Fitchburg, MA. His other assignments include Sacred Heart Parish in Hopedale, St. Joan of Arc Parish in Worcester and St. John the Evangelist Parish in Clinton. In 2002 he was named Pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Blackstone where he served until 2008, when he was assigned Catholic Pastor for the Chapel of Hope at the Newport, RI Navy Base. He was named Pastor of St. Ann Parish in North Oxford on July 1, 2009. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus.
CALLING HOURS will be held at ST. PAUL'S CATHEDRAL, 15 Chatham St., in Worcester on WEDNESDAY, Sept. 16, from 2 to 7 P.M., followed by a WAKE SERVICE at 7 P.M. A CONCELEBRATED FUNERAL MASS will be held at 11 A.M. on THURSDAY, Sept. 17, in the CATHEDRAL. Most Reverend Robert J. McManus will be the principal celebrant. Burial will follow in the Clergy Section of St. John's Cemetery, Worcester. The family suggests donations in memory of Fr. Dennis be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 7020 AC Skinner Pkwy, Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32256.
www.woundedwarrior
project.org
Kelly Funeral Home, 154 Lincoln St., Worcester, is assisting the family with arrangements. Please leave messages of condolence, share your thoughts, stories and memories of Fr. Dennis on-line at
www.kellyfuneralhome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Rocheford
Sponsored by anonymous.
Gus Mingus
January 24, 2025
I met Fr Rocheford when I was in 3/8 back in the late 80´s, when I was a DI at PISC, he was there, when I was on float with 2d Force-he was on the same boat. When I went through OCS he was the school´s chaplain. At TBS he was the chaplain there too. He knew my wife and kids, I thought the world of him. He kidded he was my "personal chaplain " as we spent years following each other. He married a few friends of ours, and I was and am still shocked to hear what happened. He was a fine man, a good Marine and an even greater Chaplain. He´s still missed and remembered
Richard Baker
April 13, 2023
I went to school with him always kind to everybody
Marc and Jan
April 11, 2023
So missed. He changed so many lives ...
God takes the best. R.I.P.
Patrick
April 10, 2023
The world is a lesser place without you Father Rocheford. S/F
Jan Fornaciari
September 7, 2022
Still in my prayers after all these years.. Beautiful soul
Martin Kerr
May 19, 2022
For some reason Father Dennis popped into my head after all these years. I googled him and saw his obit. So saddened to hear of his passing. I was a young Hospital Corpsman stationed at Camp Lejeune in 1988. My wife and I were going through a particularly difficult separation. He was an unending source of comfort and guidance, helping me through the darkest days of my life. Reading these posted messages, I was not unique. Rest well good and Faithful servant. Thank you for your complete dedication to His Church and to our country. I will always remember you in my prayers, please pray for us too! Semper Fidelis, Marine
PATRICIA CLARK
August 18, 2020
I was so sad to see you passed Fr Dennis. I was in Jr HS when you were a Deacon at Our Lady of Fatima Church. You were such a kind and wonderful influence on everyone. God rest your soul and may you rest in peace.
Timothy Ventry
January 15, 2020
Allways remembering you, picture of you in my marriage photos. I'm so sorry I couldn't be there and help, like those years you helped me. Semper Fi I miss you.... God Be With you. TJ. Semper Fi
September 11, 2019
It has been ten years since you found the eternal peace that you could not find on Earth. I pray for your soul every day. Thank you for bringing me back to the Church; it has made a great impact on my life. May God bless you and keep you.
Maribel Gonzalez-Lee
March 9, 2019
I am quite late in receiving the news of Father Rocheford's passing. He was the chaplain when I was in bootcamp at Parris Island. My husband went through bootcamp right before me and also attended Father Rocheford's Catholic Mass. We often talked about asking him to officiate our vow renewal for our 25th anniversary in 2020. I am utterly heartbroken to hear of his loss. He was such a kind man. I can only imagine how much he has been and will continue to be missed. May he rest in eternal peace.
Ted Claibourne
January 14, 2019
Father Rocheford was serving God at Parris Island while I was a drill instructor 92-94. I had a few coversations with Father Rocheford even though I was not catholic. He talked to a number of my recruits that were struggling and was always able to motivate them to continue on. I remember our conversations fondly Father Rocheford. May you Rest In Peace.
C Bergman
July 8, 2018
Father Rocheford provided my soul and spirit with the light of Life and Hope while we engaged in a tough fight in the summer of 2006, Ramadi. He remains a mentor and guide. Father, you remain in my prayers.
A friend
January 19, 2017
Always in my prayers.Such a beautiful soul..Heaven has an angel. RIP
January 17, 2017
Just heard about Father Rocheford, was awful to hear. He was our Chaplin at Parris Island in '94, then again aboard the USS Wasp on our way to Haiti. He actually rememberd me by my first name while he was dishing out chow to us jarheads on ship. I remember being very impressed by that being we maybe just met once or twice during boot camp. He would do the same things we would do, going on humps, runs.....you name it. He would be seen quite often running on the flight deck during ops, I was right there with him. Saddened me to hear about him, he is missed.
November 1, 2016
Still missed. Still missed.
We pray your spirit, which enriched aned comforted so many others, is in solace, joy, peace now.
Leominster
Sister Sarah Anne
April 12, 2016
Father Dennis, I thank you so much for your spiritual guidance as I was discerning my vocation to the religious life. I am very content as a nun. The traditional order in which I am professed allows me to live a contemplative life but also affords me a path to ministry where my training as a nurse/social worker and psychotherapist are intertwined. I love my spouse and finding him in the persons I care for within my apostolate. I thank you for being there for me and allowing my parents to arrive at a place of acceptance. They continue to say, "there are no more nuns" but here I am. I did try to help you but you would not let me in. I wanted to reach you within the bounds of my professions. I know you must be so happy in the presence of Our Lord where you are safely cradled, also in the presence of Our Spiritual Mother. You are safely home and only a prayer away. I only wished that you came to understand and realize your innate goodness. I am sure that you are aware of what you meant to all of us now that you are home in Paradise in perfect bliss. Love and blessings: Sister Sarah-Anne
September 26, 2015
Thought of you this past 9/10 and 9/11 as I do every day, as you continue to affect my life and light my path to my Creator, as I am sure you do so many others who your life touched. Continued prayers for your family and "your" Marines, wherever they may be. Always in my heart, Eileen
Robert Stone
September 10, 2015
Thinking about you today Father Rocheford. I am so glad I had the privilege to be around you at 3rd Battalion Eighth Marine Regiment. You made me a better Marine and person. Semper Fi
Bryan Sargent
July 29, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the family of Cdr Rocheford. The world lost a great leader, mentor, and person. I just read about his passing and it instantly saddened me. He was a chaplain at MCRD Parris Island, S.C. when I went through in 1993 and made an impact on every recruit that went through there. On numerous occasions I would pass through the depot and see him and he would always take the time to talk to you and see how you were. His presence in the church with his sermons would always find a way to reach out to all those that attended. You just knew the greatness within him. He will be missed, but I know he helped so many in his years on the earth.
J.F.
July 19, 2015
Always in my daily prayers.....still
Scott Humphrey
July 18, 2015
It saddens me to the core upon learning of this loss. He helped me in my darkest hour. Thank you sir and God Bless you my brother. Semper fi.
Sister Bernadette Marie
April 13, 2015
I pray for your intercession. You were always there for me for spiritual direction. I have just taken my final vows of late and I owe you a debt of gratitude for your assistance in discernment. I am a trained psychologist but was never able to help you or so it seemed. I can't thank you enough for your assistance and support and thank the Good Lord for the gift of your ministry. May God and Our Blessed Mother be a source of comfort now as you are nestled safely in their arms. Love and prayers, Sister Bernadette Marie-(a newly professed Carmelite)
Ben O
March 6, 2015
I will never forget your kindness and compassion. I wish I could have spoken to you again before your passing. You lifted my spirit when I was down and I wish I could have done the same for you.
Michael Gourdin
December 1, 2014
Father Rocheford's services kept me going while I was on the Island. God Bless.
karol
August 22, 2014
I did not know this wonderful gentleman and priest but he had a very great positive influence on the son (ROB) on a friend of mine. All of us how knew of him through Rob and SUe are saddened!
James
March 21, 2014
Being down in P.I. in the fall of 92, I had the privilege for an hour on Sunday to attend service and listen to a remarkable guy take my mind off the new surroundings I have chosen for myself and help me through 3 months of basic. Its been 2 Decades since I left the Island and have to say this is a sad story Fr Rocheford was a great man that was an asset for any command that had the honor of his presence. A Great Person gone to soon. Sir,
Rest in Peace!
Semper Fi,
George Jones
March 2, 2014
I offer my sincerest condolences. He was the chaplain on Parris Island in 1991 when I enlisted. He will always remain a positive influence in my life.
Joe M.
November 12, 2013
I remember when Father D and his little green priest-mobile rolled around St. Theresa's when I was younger and the outrages stories he would tell during service, earning our hearts with his humor-masked-wisdom. I never knew him or spoke to him personally, however the impact he had on me to connect me to church and the Lord was just enough to make me realize just how incredible of a person he truly was. It was like we had received a whole new reason to go to church. His kindheartedness, laugh, smile, and captivating stories will be greatly missed.
Eileen Strocky
October 23, 2013
Just a note on the third anniversary of Father's passing. We remain always faithful to your example and your memory and I hope that all of us carry on in our lives with the example of being a Christian that you left. I saw a church billboard recently that said "For many people, YOU are the only gospel they will read this week" and thought of you. The best way to honor your memory is to take that billboard message and LIVE IT.
August 26, 2013
Father Dennis touched so many lives and is missed daily by so many of us.
I had the good fortune (blessing as Dennis would remind me) of becoming friends with him at U Mass in 1972. Over the years, he was always there for me and my family (as he was for anyone who knew him),especially our wedding along with the birth and baptism of our children.
I will always treasure the good times we shared, such as our visits to Camp Lajeune, Quantico, Ipswich, Newport and all his parishes.
Dennis, your faith and life continue to inspire...
Charlie O'Donnell
Shelley DePalo
July 9, 2013
Forever Changed because of you xo
Edward Nevgloski
July 9, 2013
Every second with you was time well spent. Thanks for the example you set for me and the countless others. You are missed and will never be forgotten!
Semper Fi, Marine!
charlotte therrien
July 8, 2013
Always in my thoughts. You'll never be forgotten. Thanks tor all you did.
July 5, 2013
So loved and so missed...
robert doyle
July 4, 2013
We owe our freedom to the likes of two former Marines and later Navy chaplains
Cdt Fr Dennis Rocheford and Cdr Fr Vinnie Germano whom are in the arms of Jesus forever! We love you and miss you beyond measure. Pop Doyle USMC ret.
Shirley St.John
July 3, 2013
Father Dennis. You had such a profound effect on so many people all over the country. I just keep asking myself 'Why?"
We all miss you so much
Clint Weber
July 2, 2013
God Bless you Father Dennis. My favorite Christmas Mass was with you and a few Marines in Ar Ramadi. You were, and still are such an inspiration to us.
March 23, 2013
Always in my prayers..
March 22, 2013
(Going to keep this brief. Otherwise, I become emotional). Father Dennis is a true American hero, from his tours in Nam as a "grunt" (two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star), to his ordination and voluntary service as a chaplain to the troops that he loved, in combat zones.
I was thrilled when he was named Pastor at my church. Unfortunately, it was much too brief. I so looked forward to him as being my parish priest, but plans change.
I make frequent visits to St. John's, and Fr. Dennis' resting place is a regular stop.
May St. Michael be your guide, Dennis.
Donia Bailey
February 12, 2013
RIP Father Dennis. I knew you as a child a few years after my own father passed away. You baptized me, gave me my first communion.. I remember you being so kind to me when I was so troubled. I hope you are finally at peace..
Nancy & Jim Meehan
January 28, 2013
We were speaking about Father Dennis last eveing with an army nurse who served in Vietnam, and shared with her how much we admired Fr. Dennis and appreciated his service to our country and God. It is hard to believe that more than 3 years have passed since he left us.
As I looked at my email this morning, there was a notice of new messages posted to this wonderful book or remembrances.
I decided to take another look, and found that this wonderful life is not forgotten, and that this book will remain open permanently. If only he had know what a difference he made in so many peoples lives, and how much he is missed.
January 28, 2013
Father Dennis. May your light never go out. I still ask why?
Love!
Lewis Mathis
January 27, 2013
My heart is saddened with the news of his passing. I met him 20 years ago at Parris Island and like many he touched my life forever. He was an inspiration to a young recruit and I think of him often. I wish that I had kept in touch with him and had been able to tell him that he made a difference in this Marine's life. You will be missed by many. I pray for you. MUCH LOVE!
William Frazier
October 17, 2012
After many years I had a thought to try and contact Fr. Rocheford. I'm shocked to see this report. The service and compassion he shared with so many meant so much. This is very sad news. I pray for all the others who may be suffering as he must have been.
"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26
September 3, 2012
And yet another year passes. You are so missed Father Rocheford.
Dave Wollert
September 2, 2012
Sorry to hear of this, Father Dennis was MY BN.Chaplain when I was with I 3/8, 22nd MEU LF6F1-89 USS Guadalcanal. The most caring Inspiring Person that I have ever met,And I will never forget. Rest in Peace my friend.
James EM3 Gargasz
August 21, 2012
I was a member of the USS WASP while LCDR Rocheford was a Chaplin aboard the ship. I was especially thankful that he was aboard the ship when my grandfather was dieing and was able to counsel me. I will always remember him as a kind individual always ready to help or console without any thought of his own needs or wants. I am sorry that it took me this long to look up, or find someone who was able to help me in my time of need. It appears that I should have thought to look him up sooner, I may have helped him as he helped me in my time of need.
RA Doyle USMC ret
July 18, 2012
Father Rocheford is remmembered with reverence with my buddy and former Marine
Cdr. Fr. Vincent Germano CHC,USN who are both in Heaven too soon!
July 18, 2012
As time draws near,the thought of losing you becomes stronger and stronger.
Soon another year and we all still mourn. Rest in peace, special one.
Mary O'Connell
July 18, 2012
Scott Kim, My husband was an active duty Marine attending OCS at the same time. He got injured halfway through the 6 wk course in '96. They had him processing candidates in 1997 while he continued to recover and make another attempt at completing the course. Father Rocheford was there for us during this time and we had him baptize our oldest son in the late summer('96). It was heartbreaking to hear of his passing. But I am thankful to read about how many other lives Fr. touched, in addition to ours. We all have a Guardian Angel now... God Bless Fr. Rocheford now and forever. I hope your career as a Marine is everything you thought it would be. Semper Fi
Scott Kim
July 17, 2012
I graduated OCS in 1997. I remember Father Rocheford, at 48 years old, giving me pointers on how to run better, and then blowing past me to help the next candidate. A great man. He is missed.
May 29, 2012
Any one who had the joy of knowing you, will never forget you. Not a week goes by that I don't think of you. Father, you were unique and we miss your presence.
I know God has you in the palm of his hands.
Brendan and Mary O'Connell
May 29, 2012
Thinking of you this Memorial Day weekend, Father Rocheford!!
Jan
May 29, 2012
Always in my prayers.
Sadly missed by all.
Becky B
May 28, 2012
Remembering you especially today, Fr. Dennis. You will not be forgotten.
James Wojas
March 12, 2012
I have just come across the news of Father Dennis' passing. I met Fr Dennis onboard the USS Wasp in the 1990's. He was the hardest working man onboard. He would remember every name, every conversation, and carried with him a humble peace that only God could bestow. The way Father Dennis would start his evening prayers have become part of my method in praying with my childeren, "Lord God, Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth." I will truly miss you, and count myself blessed to have served with you Father Dennis.
Zane Corbett
March 5, 2012
I met Father Rocheford as a young man while serving with 3/8 26 MEU and was given such peace every time I saw those eyes, no matter how bad your day was going it was instantly washed away with a simple word from him. the world is a lesser place without you sir. Semper Fi
Lori Duncan
November 26, 2011
Fr Dennis and his family are in my thoughts and prayers. I learned just yesterday that he passed away. I will NEVER FORGET you and how you made an impact in my life. It's a comfort knowing that you are watching out for us up above. Thank you Father! Semper Fi!
Kevin Phillips
November 11, 2011
Father Rocheford helped and guided me when I first learned about death in the military with a personal experience. I have used what he said to me every time death becomes a part of my life and I have to thank him for that. He is and will continue to be missed. Psalm 50 will continue to be my guiding Psalm. Father Rocheford, thank you. Semper fi and Pax!
JMF
October 17, 2011
Father Dennis is my prayers daily, and it seems everyone else feels the same way.
How inspiring to so many it would be to see the kind of person Father was if his life story was made into a movie.
Just reading the comments here show the vast aspects of his life.
The man, the soldier, the priest.
Rest in peace, humble servant.
Tom Gribble
October 16, 2011
I found this and wanted to say thank you for keeping this going. I will miss him he is a great man. Thank you Father.
Chris Massey
October 10, 2011
I just found out about this tragedy, and through tears i write this. Father Rocheford saved my life once, gave me marriage counseling, and knew every man in 3/8 by his first name. He walked beside me up a mountain in France and offered me a piece of candy when i truly needed inspiration. Today, when we talk about heroes, noone comes to my mind before Father Rocheford. Rest in peace Father and semper fi.
robert doyle
September 23, 2011
You are in my daily prayers Father!
Semper Fi, Pop Doyle USMC ret
September 22, 2011
Semper Fi, Sir. Once, onboard the USS Wasp, a young Marine in my platoon asked Father Rocheford why he was wearing cammies (camouflage). Response: "Because I earned them". Cpl Flores, USMC.
Crazy Auntie Shirley
September 13, 2011
In my thoughts every day.Every day I ask "Why". We needed you so much. I know you're in heaven, as you should be. You will never know how many lives you touched wherever you went.
Sadly missed
September 13, 2011
Seems like yesterday...Always in my prayers.
He is so missed. May God keep you by his side,and shower you with all the mercy and goodness you showed to others.Rest in peace dear Father.
September 12, 2011
He inspired me to be the person I became after I joined the Marine Corps. Now on Sept. 11 I remember all the friends and colleagues I have served with and lost over the years.
I feel guilty that our paths didn't cross again because maybe I could have comforted him as he comforted me a long time ago.
April 25, 2011
So glad this guest book is still open for a beautiful soul,dear Father Dennis. I will always remember the Easter mass he served when he came down the aisle with live bunnies and the like. Father Dennis was a true delight.
Always in my prayers.
Chris Brown
April 10, 2011
I know this is extremely late but was just given information about this. Father Rocheford is the reason I made it through many of my trials while in the Marines; he got me through boot camp after my father had a heart attack and he counsuled me when times were tough in the fleet. I kept in touch for a number of years but lost contact after I got out. He was one of the best men I ever knew and I will never forget him; may God accept him into heaven because I know ever Marine who ever knew him and is in heaven now will vouch for him. St. Michael protect him and usher him through the gates of heaven.
August 13, 2010
It has been one year since the loss of our dear Father Dennis.
Not a day passes without his name in my prayers.
What a gift we have in our memories.
Rest in peace dear servant.
Rene Lafayette
June 12, 2010
How can I begin to speak of this man, this Marine, this Officer, this Patriot, this Priest, this inspiration? He was my priest, my spiritual director, my confessor, my friend. He helped me through a bitter divorce. Married my wife and I and gave my son First Communion. A special photo of him in Iraq shows the chalice that we gave him. So many thoughts. So many prayers. So many tears. He lives in and through us and you - in every sunrise, every time we say "beauty back" or "please take care of eachother." Eternal Father, strong to save... I am a better person, husband, father thanks to you of dazzling blue eyes and sparkling smile. Salve Regina...Rene M. Lafayette
Christy Lehnertz-Horn
May 19, 2010
My family was blessed to be members of the Quantico Marine Memorial Chapel where Fr. Dennis served Our Lord and the USMC before returning to his home parish. He offered a beatiful home mass when our youngest receivd his First Holy Communion and a young Air Force family, we embraced him for his love of Christ and tremendous example he set for our two young sons. Father had a brilliant sparkle in his eye and there was never a doubt he was speaking with the convictions of His heart. I spoke with him a few years ago about my oldest son's decision to discern the priesthood and he was so excited and encouraging. Today, calling the parish to share the news with him that my son may now be considering the military chaplaincy, I learned of his death. I am in shock! I have every confidence that he is resting in the arms of the Lord he so fervently served. We experienced the impact of Father Dennis' work on earth; I can only imagine what works will be accomplished beside the Lord in Heaven. A convert to Catholicism, Father Dennis was by far the most inspiring speaker I've known in the Church. My sympathies go out to his family, who must surely miss him even more. God bless you!
PJ Ehrman
April 8, 2010
Cheese and rice Father, Cheese and rice. I hope you hear my prayers. I went to my first Good Friday Mass; it was the longest Mass I had ever attended also, it was incredible and a somber reminder of what Christ went through to save us; most definately worth it! I had a flash in prayer of you and how you are so funny and, out of the blue I uttered: Cheese and Rice! I love you Padre. Enjoy your well earned rest. -RP3 PJ Ehrman
Evelyn Whittaker
March 14, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010
PJ Ehrman
March 11, 2010
Father, I think of you all the time and I was trying to find your whereabouts today. I am in tears for the loss of such a great man and friend. I did not know you had passed. I will never forget you; while deployed with the 26th MEU in 1996, I was stationed with you on the USS Wasp. You made that miserable experience tolerable. You were my mentor and my friend. Thank you for bringing me back to my faith. I so miss our talks. I still try to say I Worcester like you. I miss you, your philosophy, and the funny laugh you had. God you are holding a true hero and an example of how to love unconditionally. All your purple hearts are a reminder of the love you gave us. Rest peacefully dear friend. RP3 Paul "PJ" Ehrman
Chris Dalton
January 18, 2010
I miss you, Father. I wish we could have spent more time together, but the time we did spend was an incredible inspiration. I will always miss you, admire you, and love you.
January 3, 2010
Missing Father and wishing we could turn back time..for us..but for him, he needed to rest. God gives you what you can handle and Father never said NO..may his good works continue to inspire us..as he wished..."take care of each other"
January 3, 2010
It is the start of another year. How we miss Father Dennis.He will never be far from all our thoughts.
Thank you Anonymous for helping us to spread the news of one so dear to so many. God Bless Father,his family and all who pray for him.
Phillip Carlyle
January 2, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Carol Charbonneau
December 29, 2009
God grant you the comfort and peace of heart you gave to so many in His name. You were a faithful servant. May He hold you in the palm of His hand forever. You gave His love in spite of your personal pain and suffering. You are a hero and the wind beneath the wings of so many. We will miss you always and never forget.
Francis Winnett
December 28, 2009
Fr. Dennis was a remarkable humble priest who I met at Quantico, I was a retireds Marine He was the chaplin. I will neve forget he always went to the fielde with the officer cardets Pak and all..You alway flet the he was one of you...I pray that you found the peace that you earned. I am sure that God welccomed you home as he said welcome good and faithful servant...Semper Fi
Ari Wajnberg
December 13, 2009
As a young Lieutenant on the WASP, I had some challenging assignments and times. The one constant in my shipboard life, however, was the strong and caring guidance of Father Dennis. He was a wonderful priest, a great friend, and an even better human being. Each evening prior to lights out, he would remind all of that our help was from the Lord, Who made Heaven and Earth. Those words comforted me and my shipmates, and helped us continue on with our collective journey. This world is a better place because Father Dennis was in it. Fair winds and following seas, my dear friend, and Semper Fideles!
Ari Wajnberg
November 30, 2009
I remeber the first time I met Fr Dennis. As a recruit(March 1992) I remember his first piece of advice," Don't worry about swim qual boys,the pack floats!" Three years later we met again when I was deployed on the USS WASP. I still remember being a young NCO and the advice he gave me about life in general. I am still at a loss for words and cant help the tears in my eyes as i wrote this.
Semper Fi!!!!!!!!!!!!
1stSgt Shawn Dempsey USMC
November 22, 2009
I became Catholic because of Father Rocheford. He baptised by daughter, blessed our house and confirmed my wife and myself. The greatest man that I ever met!
laura ciak
November 6, 2009
Father Dennis was the reason I started to attend Mass again. I loved his whimsical stories of life and the way he preached. He made me want to listen and enjoy my catholic faith again. I will enjoy all the pictures I have of him christening my son and the first communion of my daughter. I don't think I will ever come upon a more beautiful and caring priest again. Rest in peace and know that you did make a difference here on earth.
Jan
November 3, 2009
Thank you,anonymous,for keeping this Guest Book going.
I hope someone takes all of these accolades and compiles a book or makes a movie on the life of one who served so many, loved so much,and changed the lives of those blessed to have known him.
God bless you Father Dennis.You are so loved and missed!
Frank Calvillo
November 2, 2009
I am terribly saddened to hear of Fr. Dennis' passing. He was the most amazing man I have ever known. I met him while I was attending Marine Corps OCS and TBS in 1997, where he seemed to be omnipresent. During field exercises he would be up before dawn to serve breakfast to half-asleep candidates. He'd walk up and down the columns during challenging hikes handing out hard candy and inspiration. He would run along side of you on difficult runs encouraging you to "hang in there" even though he had already run the course earlier that morning with other candidates. And you would find him walking the lines in the middle of the night checking on the Marines. Fr. Dennis seemingly never slept. He gave the most meaningful homilies and he changed lives forever by his example and encouragement. Farewell and rest in peace, Fr. Dennis. You are loved and missed by so many. May God bless you, thou good and faithful servant.
Evelyn Whittaker
October 27, 2009
Father Dennis meant a lot to me and I miss him so much. After his death, I would call his cell phone number just to hear his voice. I miss that voice and his beautiful smile .
I will always love and miss you Father. RIP SEMPER FIDELIS
October 19, 2009
Fr Rocheford was the finest Chaplain I have met in my 21 years as a Marine. When we were at OCS and TBS in 97/98 he was an absolute inspiration to us all. My heart goes out to his family. It was an honor to have met him. Semper Fidelis, Major Bill Blocker, USMCR
Major Chris Lynch USMC
October 16, 2009
I met Father Rocheford in June 1992 as a recruit in Marine Corps boot camp at Parris Island. I became an alter boy for the 3 months I was there. I last saw him the day I graduated that September. He was a tremendous individual and an inspiration to so many. I've thought of him often over the years. I was shocked and deeply saddened to read of his passing. I pray that he is at rest and at peace with our Loving Father.
Ron and Maryann Grega
October 13, 2009
Father Dennis Rocheford~
A VERY HOLY PRIEST SON OF OUR BLESSED MOTHER, has gone home to THE FATHER and SON who he served with ALL his heart and soul. His strong witness inspired and continues to inspire us.
St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Christ Child of the Holy Eucharist, and Father Rocheford, pray for us.
Rest in peace, Father Dennis.
Semper Fi.
Dennis Mesday
October 13, 2009
I served with CDR Dennis Rocheford in Al Qaim, Iraq. When I heard of his passing I was at a loss of words...well I still am. May God Bless Him...
October 13, 2009
www.frdennisrocheford.org
October 11, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Father Dennis. He was a wonderful man,a true friend to all. His faith always shines through. He has helped so many throughout his life; and I know that he continues to watch over us all. RIP Father Dennis. You will live on in the hearts of so many of the people that you have touched throughout your life.
Jennifer Garrard
October 10, 2009
I knew Fr. Dennis when he was priest at Marine Memorial Chapel on Quantico, Va. He was there for my first communion. I loved him. He was the reason I enjoyed going to church so much. I missed him so much when he left but continued to get updates on his whereabouts through other people at church. My dad just recently told me of his passing. It's sad to think that this world has lost such a great man as him, but I have no doubt that he is sitting with God. He was and will always be my favorite priest. My prayers and condolences go out to his family, friends, and anyone else whose life he touched.
Even almost 15 years later, I still think of you often.
Jen Reilly
October 10, 2009
Fr. Rocheford was such a comfort and an inspiration. He counseled my husband and I during a most difficult time. I wish I could have offered him comfort or encouragement in his struggles. I loved him and know in fact that he served our Lord in a most divine way. May he rest in peace, and know the comfort of our Savior now and always. I will miss you tremendously.
Maj Wolcott
October 9, 2009
God bless you father. You were always a source of endless inspiration during the grueling summers in Quantico. I am a better man for having known you. You are missed.
Semper Fi
John Luczkowski
October 9, 2009
A servant in the truest sense of the word. Watch over us and protect us.
Joanne and John Lennon
October 8, 2009
My husband and I will sadly miss you. You were a true person,your homilys were so interesting and enlightning.You did so much good in this world,you have touched so many hearts and souls.Rest in peace.
Col. Timothy Bailey
October 7, 2009
Father Rocheford was the Chaplain for 25th Marines in the late 90's. He deployed with us on a Partnership for Peace exercise to Romania in 1999. I was blessed to see him this past December at the Newport base chapel. We spoke briefly after Mass. He told me of his deployment to Iraq and I shared with him my experiences while deployed to Afghanistan. A Mass is being offered for him on Jan 10th at Our Lady of Miraculous Medal in Hampton, NH.
He will be in my prayers always.
Semper Fidelis Father
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