Michael Roche 1941-2018

Michael "Mike" Brian Roche, died suddenly on February 25, six weeks after the death of his beloved wife of 47 years, Mary Kathleen "Kathy" Roche. Loving father of Michael (Megan) Roche, Kevin (Laura) Roche, and Maura "Molly" (Dawn Walsh) Roche. Much loved grandfather of Jack, Margaret, Dennis, Claire, and Colin Roche. Dear brother of Kathleen "Lolly" Petrillo. Deeply loved brother-in-law of Thomas (the late Mary Pat) McGuire, Carol McGuire, Michael McGuire, Sheila (Thomas) Hansen, and Jean (Timothy) Quinn. Kind and generous uncle of 16 nieces and nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late John P. and Mary Kay Roche, and his parents-in-law, the late Thomas J. and Marguerite McGuire.

A graduate of Notre Dame High School in Niles, Mike received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Notre Dame and was proud to be a "Triple Domer" and loyal son of Notre Dame. He served on the Board of Directors of Notre Dame High School and was an original inductee into the school's Hall of Honors. He also served on the Alumni Board of the University of Notre Dame and was a past President of the Notre Dame Club of Chicago.

Mike practiced law for more than 50 years with Schuyler, Roche & Crisham, P.C., and its predecessors, heading up the firm's Business Litigation practice as a nationally known securities and commodities litigator. While Mike loved the law, he also loved sports and played 16-inch softball for almost his entire legal career with the Grant Park Lawyers League, serving as Commissioner for 10 years, and sustaining more than a few injuries. He was a diehard fan of Notre Dame football and the Chicago White Sox.

A man of deep faith, Mike was a member of the fundraising committee for St. Mary of the Lake Seminary and of the Board of Directors for the Jesuit Retreat League. With his lifelong best friend, Phil Zera, he organized an annual men's retreat at Bellarmine Hall in Barrington for almost 40 years. In 2013, Mike read about Dr. Patrick Angelo's delivery of meals to the homeless living on Lower Wacker. Mike contacted Dr. Angelo and joined the delivery team, delivering meals every Thursday night, often accompanied by his grandson Jack. Helping the homeless became Mike's passion and mission in life.

Mike was a loving and loyal friend to all who knew him.