Robert Ken Roach

Robert Kent Roach, 78, of Battle Creek died peacefully at Evergreen Senior Care on Monday, October 14, 2024. 

Bob was born August 9, 1946, in LaPorte, Indiana the son of Warren and Beverly (Hogue) Roach. He grew up in Battle Creek and was a 1965 graduate of Lakeview High School. After high school, Robert was employed for 37 years at Bill Knapp’s Commissary, until they closed in 2002.

Bob was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Haefner on November 16, 1979, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Battle Creek, Michigan. Sadly, Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ellen on May 28, 2005. Surviving are their daughter, Elizabeth Ann (Bill) Perry of Battle Creek; granddaughter, Ashley (Jon) Hess of Battle Creek; brother, Doug (Jackie) Roach of Lexington, KY; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Albert and Jane Haefner of Battle Creek; brother-in-law, Albert (Denise) Haefner of Ballwin, MO; sister-in-law, Jane Haefner of Battle Creek and several nieces, nephews and their families. In addition to his wife, Bob was also preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Beverly Roach. 

Bob enjoyed sports and occasionally attended Michigan football, Detroit Tiger, Lansing Lug Nuts and Toledo Mud Hen games with his daughter and family. Sitting on his deck in nice weather was another favorite in Bob’s life. He had several favorite TV shows he enjoyed. More than anything he enjoyed being with his family. 

Friends will be received 5:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where the Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. Thursday. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by Rev. Christopher Ankley at St. Joseph Catholic Church 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 18, 2024. Committal and interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.