1929-2018

Bobby Gene Roach was born 1929 in Anton, Texas. He graduated high school in Fort Worth in 1946, where he met Jim Rayburn and was introduced to Jesus through Young Life. Attended Whitworth College graduating in 1953 with a BA degree. Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary provided a Master’s Degree in Religious Education in 1956.

Worked in Detroit in Music/Education then west to Salem and Eureka with United Way. During the moving years he and first wife adopted 10 children, 6 from other counties. Active in Young Life, the Fellowship and softball. Significant life change as marriage ended. Moved north to West Seattle, and Federal Way. As Director of Development at Wesley Homes he met the love of his life, Joan, Director of Nursing. Married in 1983, residing in Federal Way thereafter. Years with USSSA softball and Rotary. “Connecting the dots” focused on prayer breakfasts and community gatherings. Members of Life Center Tacoma 30 years. Coach’s life verse: Galations 2:20. Special marriage verse is Ephesians 2:10. Coach passed at home under CHI Franciscan Hospice care on 21 August with Dementia. Home with Jesus!

Survived by Joan, wife of 35 years, nine living adopted children, and Joan’s three grown daughters.

Celebrate Coach’s Life on Wednesday, 12 September, 7pm at Journey Church, 701 S, 320th in Federal Way.

Always ready to “suit up, show up, and be available”.

Family asks no flowers, yet support Young Life. PO Box 4766, Federal Way, WA 98003 (memo-”Celebrate Coach Roach”) or https://giving.younglife.org/celebratecoachroach.