Brian Roy Roche

Obituary

Passed on September 11, 2023

1938 – 2023   It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Brian Roche, age 84, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend on September 11, 2023 at the Stonewall Hospital. Brian was born December 24th, 1938 and lived his entire life on the family farm at 27-11-2E in the R.M. of Rosser.

His family, farm life and his trucking business were the mainstays of his life. Brian was predeceased by his father, Roy (1979), mother Gladys (2010). Surviving members are his beloved wife of 63 years, Jeanette; son Wayne (Karen) and Wayne’s children Cyndle-Lee (Nicholas, great grandchildren Natalee & Madeline); Janelle (Paul) and Karsey (Derek and great granddaughter Scarlet); son Bruce (Jaylene) and grandsons Max and Spencer; brother Ron (Pat); sister Diane Blue (Ben) and their families along with other extended family who held a special place in his life.

Brian attended Little Mountain and Cecil Rhodes schools. He left school at age 16 and joined his father Roy and his Uncle Jim Davis on the farm. Brian was very proud that six generations of Roche’s have and are living on the family farm. He combined his farming life with his love for trucking. He became an owner/operator with Gardewine and Sons and for some 36 years travelled north to Grand Rapids, Flin Flon, Thompson and on the winter roads. He eventually established his own business, Brian Roche Enterprises and became a well known grain and cattle hauler. He hauled grain for many local farmers forming lasting friendships in the process.

Brian was a dedicated and honored member of the Vintage Locomotive Society (The Prairie Dog Central Railway). In 1999 he was instrumental in providing the Prairie Dog Central Railway with a new home on Prairie Dog Trail. The move from the St. James Station ensued not long after this and it was all over a cup of coffee with an old friend at the Sun Valley Restaurant. The end result was keeping an historic piece of history alive. Brian was also a longtime member of the Rocklands Antique club and the Turtle Mountain Fly Wheel Club in Killarney. He attended many fairs and parades over the years with his beautifully restored antique Farmall Tractors. When a club held a fundraiser one could always rely on Brian to gather the merchandise for the silent auctions.

Brian was a thoughtful and caring person who enjoyed being around family and friends. He and Jeanette hosted many family gatherings over the years. With the presence of his signature trademark the “toothpick” in its usual place, Brian made sure the tables were exactly where he wanted them to be and Jeanette followed up with delicious food. He was generous with his time and efforts and never hesitated to help a friend in need. The last five years proved difficult for Brian. As his health deteriorated so did his spirit. His family will endeavor to live up to the legacy he has left with us.

Sincere thanks to the home care workers and the medical staff at Stonewall Hospital for the care provided to Brian.

A family graveside service will take place at Chapel Lawn on Monday, September 18 at 3 pm where Brian will be laid to rest next to his parents.

Honorary Pallbearers: Barry Davis, Ben Blue, Dennis Elchuk, Cyndle-Lee Anderson, Janelle Roche and Karsey Reid. Pallbearers: Max Roche, Spencer Roche, John Eichel, Bob Sigfusson, Blair Shabaga and Adrian Shabaga. Rev. Mona Denton will officiate.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held Friday, September 22, 2023, 1 to 5 pm at Little Mountain Sportsplex 64-128 Klimpke Road with words of remembrance at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations can be forwarded to The Prairie Dog Central Railway, P.O. Box 33021, RPO Polo Park Winnipeg, R3G 3N4 or Lilyfield United Church c/o Box 22 R.R.2, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 2E6.

“Casual dress please or coveralls of your choice”

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