John Rocha Jr. of Watsonville, CA passed away peacefully on October 9, 2017 at the age of 99.
John was born in Riverdale, CA on May 6, 1918. He grew up working hard with his family in the dairy business, with the help of his late wife, Violet Rocha. They created a successful cattle ranch business. He enjoyed spending time with family, traveling in his motorhome and driving around the ranch in his 1950 Willy’s Jeep. John was a friendly person to be around and liked to joke around and loved to tell stories of his upbringing. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
John is survived by his loving wife, Irene of 13 years; his children, John E. (Isabel) Rocha of Watsonville; Daniel (Ann) Rocha of Redding; Gary Rocha of Watsonville; stepson Bert (Jane) Lunsford of Anderson; daughter-in-law Mary Rocha; stepsister Vicky (Bruce) Diberson of Gilroy; sister Alice (Frank) Nunes of Red Bluff; brother Lawrence (Barbara) Rocha of Watsonville; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends. John was preceded in death by his son Gerald “Jerry” Rocha.
Public graveside service will be held on October 19, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at Pajaro Valley Memorial Park in Watsonville.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Aromas Bible Church and Ag History Project in Watsonville.
Arrangements have been entrusted in the care of the Carroll Family of Ave Maria Memorial Chapel, www.avemariamemorialchapel.com
