Obituary of Frank J. Roche Sr.

Frank J. Roche Sr., 76, of Duryea passed away Saturday morning September 7th, 2024 at home surrounded by his loving family.  

Born in Pittston, he was the son of the late Joseph and Nettie Russell Roche.  He was a graduate of Pittston Area High School and a former member of Sacred Heart Church, Duryea. He was then a member of St. John the Evangelist Church in Pittston.

Frank was a skilled mechanic, employed over 40 years by Topps Chewing gum, Duryea, officially retiring from the Scranton Plant. 

In his younger years, he worked long hours as a contractor completing numerous renovation projects.  He served as a volunteer firefighter and was a lifetime member of Germania Hose Company, Duryea.  He loved serving his community and assisting those in need.  

Frank’s infectious smile and hearty laugh captivated those around him.  Serving as the family comedian, he cherished every moment he spent with his loving family.  Frank never missed a sporting event or extracurricular activity for his children and grandchildren. He was always their biggest fan and the first person in the audience. He enjoyed cheering on Penn State’s Football team, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Phillies. When Penn State wasn't playing, you could find him sitting on the front porch in his Penn State rocking chairs dressed in the colors of his favorite sports team. 

Frank was a huge animal lover, leaving behind his two dogs Max and Ruby who will surely miss him. Frank’s willingness to help people in need was unwavering as he frequently made donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital and loved the Irem Shriners circus. 

An avid baker, he spent countless hours in the kitchen and delivering homemade bread to those he loved.  For Germania’s annual picnic, he made the homemade dough for pizza frittas for all to enjoy.  

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Joseph and Edward Roche, sisters, Katherine Gacek, Theresa Adamiak, and grandson, Kenneth Smoke

Frank is survived by his children, Frank Roche Jr, West Hollywood, California, Jane Maas, Pittston, Jason Roche and his wife Linda, Duryea, his former spouse and forever friend, Jane Mulhern Roche, grandchildren, Jason Roche Jr., Kassity Roche, Taylor Maas and Morgan Maas, great grandchild, Krue, sisters, Clara Wyker (Clem), New Jersey, Elaine Dolan (Robert), Avoca, and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation for Frank will be held on Saturday, September 14th, 2024 from 9am. until 10am. at St. John the Evangelist Church, Pittston at 35 William Street, Pittston.  A Mass will follow at 10am. with Father Joseph Elston, celebrant.   Interment will be in St. John’s Cemetery, Duryea. 

The family would like to express their sincerest appreciation to Dr. Maya Lichtenstein and Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the wonderful care and compassion they provided Frank and his family.

In lieu of flowers or memorial donations please see Funeral Home staff at the church.  

Arrangements are by the Howell-Lussi Funeral Home Inc., 509 Wyoming Avenue, West Pittston.

Online Condolences can be left at our website at Howelllussi.com.