Robert E Roach, Jr., 94, after a lifetime of service to God, Country and Community, returned to God
Robert served his country in the Naval reserves while attending Oklahoma A&M (today Oklahoma State University) where he earned his bachelors in mechanical engineering. Upon graduation, he served in the Navy as lieutenant during World War II using his education in the role of a Ship's Architect overseeing repair of war ships. After the war he continued to use his engineering skills to provide for a safe national defense. At Chance Vought he developed landing systems for Naval carrier-based aircraft (Dallas, Texas). This was followed by a long career working for General Electric across the country, including roles as an aerospace engineer working on Nimbus satellites (King of Prussia, PA). Research & development of rapid transit locomotives (Erie, PA) and designing nuclear submarines (Schenectady, NY).
Wherever he lived, Robert was active in Episcopalian liturgy & leadership. In June, 1983 Robert was ordained Episcopal Deacon by Bishop Wilber Hogg. He served God in churches and as hospice chaplain throughout the Albany diocese, primarily at St. George’s in Clifton Park, NY where he was on staff for more than three decades.
Robert and his wife Susan lived what they preached. They opened their home to children in need as foster parents. Over many years more than a dozen children found refuge in their home staying for an extended time, even serving as surrogate grandparents to the children of a foster child with whom they created a lifelong bond. For each child they provided a safe space, loving environment and foundation in the Church. Many of those who stayed as foster children continued to be a part of Robert’s life, including having him recently baptize what he would think of as his “foster great grandchildren”.
Robert is preceded in death by his first wife, Sherry F. Roach, his grandson Matthew Ziegenhine, and his second wife Susan R. Roach.
Robert is survived by his daughter Kathleen, her husband Jim Ziegenhine and their children Emily Atwood and Benjamin, by his son (Tracy) Scott Roach, his wife Amy and children Alex, James, & Emily Russo. Robert was a beloved second father to Laura, her husband David Humphrey and their children Makayla and Andrew.
Robert is also survived by his children by choice including Jessica Lynn Camlet, Susan Arielle Bailey, Margaret S. Roach and Elizabeth (Roach) Zimmerman.
Robert will be inurned next to Susan at St. George’s at a funeral service on April 7th at 11 AM in a service presided by Bishop Love.