James P. "Blackie" Roche

James P. "Blackie"  Roche, 75, of Fairview Heights, IL, born Monday, January 27, 1936, in East St. Louis, IL, died Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at his residence surrounded by his family.

Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.  He was retired from Teamsters Local 50.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council # 592 for over 50 years where he volunteered many hours to numerous activities.  He was a past Grand Knight and a member of the 4th Degree.  He additionally was a veteran of the United States Army.  Blackie's hobbies included, golf, bowling and crossword puzzles.

He was preceded in death by his:

  • Parents: Edward and Catherine nee Walsh, Roche
  • In-laws: Henry and Eleanor Zittel
  • Sisters
    • Catherine "Niecy" Roche
    • Rita Mae Roche
  • Brothers
    • Edward Donald Roche
    • Michael A. Roche
  • Brothers-in-law
    • Dally Keeling
    • Henry Zittel

Surviving are his:

  • Wife of 52 years: Mary Eleanor, nee Zittel, Roche of Fairview Heights, IL,
  • Children
    • Jim (Lisa) Roche of Carlsbad, CA
    • Kelley (David) Shore of Fairview Heights, IL
    • Michael (Renee) Roche of Belleville, IL
    • Molly Watkins of Belleville
  • Grandchildren
    • Amanda Shore (Todd Gauch)
    • Jennifer  (Richie) Edwards
    • Lauren Watkins
    • Patrick Shore (Sarah Courtney)
    • Jimmy Watkins
    • Erika Roche
    • Michael Roche
    • Kayleigh Roche
  • Great-Grandchildren
    • Hannah Shore
    • Ethan Gauch
  • Sister: Dorothy Keeling of Belleville, IL
  • Brothers
    • Daniel (Charlene) Roche
    • Leo (Nova) Roche
    • Joseph (Dorothy) Roche
  • sisters-in-law
    • Vernell Roche
    • Carol Zittel
  • Brother-in-law: Charlie (Bernie) Zittel
  • Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.


Memorials: Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.

Visitation:  Friends may call from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Friday, December 2, 2011 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL. and from 10:00 am - 11:00 am Saturday, December 3, 2011 at St. Luke Catholic Church, 301 North Church Street, Belleville, IL.

Funeral:  A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, December 3, 2011 at St. Luke Catholic Church, Belleville, IL., with Msgr. James Margason officiating.  A private burial will be held at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

Condolences left for James P. "Blackie" Roche:

    Molly, Sorry to hear about the loss of your father. You have our deepest sympathy and our prayers.

    Keith Sanders and family Rock Island Illinois 61201


    I was sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I have many fond memories of him and your family from all the time I spent at your house in high school. My deepest sympathy to all of you.

    Mary Parker Barger Belleville IL 62223


    Mike, I am very sorry for the loss of your father. In your time of sorrow take joy in the memories and know that the promise of everlasting life will allow you to join him in the arms of Jesus

    George Castles Springfield IL


    My family and I wish to express our deepest sympathies to you in this time of sorrow.

    Michael Matejka Springfield IL 62712


    Mary El, children, grandchildren and the entire extended Roche and Zittel families: I offer my condolences for the loss of Jim, a proud member of one of the finest families I know! He never wavered in his work ethic or his faith, and everyone who knew him will miss him.

    Charles Hamilton Belleville Illinois 62223


    Mike, sorry to hear about your loss. May God bless you and your during this time of sorrow.

    Mark Roose Springfield IL 62703


    Jim & Family:

    We wanted to express our sincere regret for your recent loss. Please know that our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

    Sincerely,
    Ken, Lynn, Heather & team
    PBS Managed Services


    PBS Managed Services Calgary Alberta T2Z-3X2


    Mary El & Family,

    So saddened to read of Blackie's death. He certainly was a good person, and I feel honored ti have know him.

    With Deepest Synpathy,

    Judy Ganey


    Judy Ganey Belleville IL 62226


    Sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and the months ahead.

    Ed and Kathy Handel Fairview Heights Il 62208