Tony Roche, 82, of Escalon, CA, a first-generation Italian-American son of Giacomo (Jack) and Helen Roche, was gently and lovingly eased into retirement and eternal rest with daughters Lisa and Belinda at his bedside and by the comforting words and visits of friends and family.
Tony was born in Escalon where he was a lifelong resident. At a tender age of seven, he experienced the death of his father Jack and later the loss of his mother Helen, siblings Margaret, Ima Jean, Jack, Andrew, and Joe, and his wife Diann.
Family and friends knew the depth of Tony’s loyalty to the establishment and growth of the Roche Brothers almond dynasty which he owned alongside his brothers. The Roche Brothers were honored by their recognition as Escalon’s Farmers of the Year. Tony’s passion for farming kept his hands rough, clothes dusty, hair wild, and his loving heart warm, tender and fuzzy like an unripe almond kissed by the morning sunshine.
As a youngster, Tony learned the importance of integrity, commitment to family and friends, and the necessity of a strong work ethic as demonstrated by his widowed mother of six. Tony also forged reciprocal bonds and respect among employees and local farmers. He held dear and appreciated the dedication and hard work of employees - many choosing career-long loyalty which he recognized as a force for a successful family business. Early partnerships with local farmers became lasting friendships and he never lost sight of humble beginnings. Tony sacrificed education early on to help the needs of neighbors and as his obligation to the family’s farming and agriculture life. Tony earned respect by never asking others to do work he wasn’t willing to do himself.
Tony’s sense of humor and laughter will be greatly missed. He is survived by his daughter Lisa Roche (Ivan) of Manteca, son Anthony Roche (Leslie), daughter Belinda Williams, and grandchildren Anthony Jr., John, and Alyssa all of Escalon.
Visitation: Tuesday, September 17, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Deegan’s Funeral Chapel, Escalon. Celebration of Life: Wednesday, September 18, 12 p.m., Escalon Community Center. Private services.
In loving memory, please send donations supporting Future Farmers of America students through the Tony Roche Memorial Scholarship, c/o Escalon High School, 1528 Yosemite, Escalon, CA 95320.
The Escalon (Calif.) Times
Sept. 11, 2024
