JOHN ROCHE REMEMBERED

(From Ray Munchmeyer, May, 2016)

I was thrilled to see that Joe and Tom caught the oversight about John Roche’s death at the hockey game. John has been noted at all our Reunion Masses since our first in 1973, but he somehow was missed on this list . Thank you, Joe and Tom.

John was one of my best friends at Notre Dame , and it is somehow hard to believe that he has been gone for 47 years. John and I only knew each other for 5 years, as he was killed in Viet Nam one year after graduation. In those 5 years, we had many memorable times together , but one day remains etched in my mind more than others.

Our last St. Patrick’s Day was in March of 1968. Along with some other Sorinites , we managed to do what would later be called a “Pub Crawl ” through the streets of South Bend. We started in the late morning, and finished late that night at the Senior Bar.

It was a bittersweet day, as we remembered all the other good times we had together, but all knew that this wonderful time of our life was drawing to a close. We also knew that unpleasant times were not far ahead for the class of 68. Those of us in ROTC were acutely aware of this.

Sadly, some of us experienced the ultimate unpleasant time in the next few years.

Every St. Patrick’s Day since, my wife pours me a green beer, we toast John , and remember. I must confess that long before I finish that green beer, my eyes are moist, and I am choking back a few sobs. I get through it by thinking of Sorin Hall, the Senior Bar, and the good times.

John was a remarkable man, a great friend, and a blessed addition to my life, if only for five years.

His sister and brothers and I have stayed together over the last 47 years. Nancy lives in the same town as we do in Massachusetts, while Chris lives in New York City, where we have our other house. When we get together , we always remember John, and I thank you all for doing the same.