Joseph William Roche II

July 12, 1941 — July 19, 2026

Joseph Roche II passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on what would have been his mother's 110th birthday, a fitting connection for a man who carried her spirit with him throughout his life.

A gifted athlete from a young age, Joe made his mark at Hamilton High School, where he excelled at playing baseball and, while playing football, broke the record for the most touchdowns scored in a single game. It was also in high school that he began racing cars, sparking a passion for vehicles that would extend well beyond his school years.

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard for 4 1/2 years, working in telecommunications and rising to the rank of Petty Officer Second Class (E-5). His time in the military reflected the same dedication and commitment to service he carried with him throughout his life.

A devoted father of three girls, Joe kept and rode horses with his daughters, coached his daughter's soccer teams, and enjoyed hiking and canoeing with them. He was immensely proud of his daughters and took great joy in spending time with each of them and their children.

Joe was also a private pilot who loved seeing the world from a unique point of view and taking his family on getaways up and down the east coast. He was an enthusiastic skier and surfer and later in life a skilled golfer. Joe always enjoyed time by the water; he was a natural swimmer, and could be found canoeing, water skiing, or fishing. An avid traveler, he explored destinations both around the world and across the US, with a special love for the national parks, where he hiked and camped among the country's natural wonders.

Joe lived a full and vibrant life, embracing all his passions with enthusiasm and sharing his adventurous spirit with those he loved. His constant refrain was, "life is good." He will be remembered for his easy smile, the twinkle in his blue eyes, his kindness, his generosity of spirit, and his selflessness. Above all he will be remembered for the deep love he shared with his wife, Cynthia, and their family.

Joseph was preceded in death by his mother, Olympian Alice Bridges Roche, and his father, Joseph Roche Senior. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia McKinstry; his daughters, Chris VanBuren (Scott), Kimberly Roche, and Kerry Harrington (Scott); stepdaughters, Jessica Woodworth (Bill) and Heather McKinstry (John White); grandchildren Ryan VanBuren (Eve), Sean VanBuren (Elizabeth), Amanda Holcombe (Joe), August Harrington, Tabitha Moreland, Everly Woodworth, Olaia and Lorcan White; and six great grandchildren; his sister, Peggy Price; niece Lori Taylor and nephew Chris Price (Pam).

A celebration of life will be held in his honor at the FitzGerald-Sommer Funeral Home 17 S. Delaware Avenue Yardley, PA 19067, on Friday, September 4th, 2026, at 10:30 AM, followed by a military ceremony at his final resting place, Washington Crossing National Cemetery, from 1:00PM – 1:30PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joe's memory to your favorite dog rescue. Condolences for the family can be left at www.fitzgeraldsommerfuneralhome.com.

He is dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.