William Roche

William S. Roche William S. Roche, 84, of Grand Forks, ND, died peacefully, Sunday, December 30, 2007 at Altru Hospital. William was born December 31, 1922 in Madison, SD, to William M. Roche and Elizabeth (Whalen) Roche. He graduated from St. Thomas High School in Madison, South Dakota in 1940. William served with the South Dakota National Guard, 109th Engineering Combat Battalion. He served overseas for four years and landed D-day H-30 on Omaha Beach. He took part in the battle of the Bulge and Ardennes ? Alsace. Upon return, he graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1950 and was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. William married Marjorie (Punky) Hendry on October 7, 1950 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Grand Forks. He was employed by Gaffaney's and Colborn School Supply until his retirement. He was an active member of St. Michael's Church, Past Trustee, Active Lector and Hospice Volunteer. He was also a life member of the Elk's and KC's. He appreciated all of the blessings in his life including his golf game. Bill was a man of strong faith and always tried to find things to do that were of value to the people around him. William is survived by: Wife: Marjorie (Punky) Roche ? Grand Forks Daughters: Kathy (Jason) Rumel ? Antioch ? CA Maureen (Brian) Sawyer ? Sandpoint, ID Son: David (Lynne) Roche ? Grand Forks Grandchildren: Brooke, Kelli, Benjamin and Caitlynn Brother-in-law: Robert Hendry- Grand Forks Several Nieces and Nephews He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Walter and Joseph In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Michael's Foundation, St. Michael's Bridgebuilders or Altru Hospice. BURIAL WILL TAKE PLACE AT CALVARY CEMETERY, SPRING, 2008