Jacob H. Roach Sr.

WOODSTOCK VALLEY, Conn. Jacob H. Roach Sr., 88, of Woodstock Valley, departed this life on Saturday, March 11, 2006. Jake was born January 20, 1918 in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., son of Mary (Steiner) and Jesse Roach. He was a beloved brother to 15 predeceased siblings, eight brothers and seven sisters. A veteran of World War II, Jake proudly and courageously served his country as a medic. Jake and his six brothers served in the armed forces during World War II, all at the same time. Jake retired from Tenneco in 1968 and officially retired in 1975. Jake and his wife Anna traveled often, visiting every state, all Canadian provinces, and Mexico, although their favorite destinations were Alaska and Fla. Grandchildren, sons and daughters regularly accompanied the couple in the family's RV. For 30-plus memorable summers, the extended family vacationed with the couple at the cottage in Holden, Maine. Jake and Anna shared their lives, their homes and their love of life and family with everyone. Jake was a hunter and an avid fisherman but, most of all, a nature lover. Jake is survived by his wife of 64 years, Anna Mae (Finlay) Roach, 84, formerly of Brainard, N.Y.; his children, Jacob H. Roach Jr., Woodstock Valley, Cheryl Mullin, Woodstock Valley, James Roach, Norfolk, Mass., Daniel Roach, Glastonbury and Sandra Grossi, Danielson, Conn.; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Public services will not be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the National Wildlife Federation and the Maine Lakes Conservancy Institute.