Obituary

Jean Wiener Roche was born October 24, 1929 in Cavaillon, Haiti, and passed away in his home in Wellington, Florida, on March 22, 2019, surrounded by love, following his long and courageous battle with cancer.

He leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Marie Causette Roche with whom he had two sons: Jean Wiener Roche, Jr. and Jean Marc Harold Roche; and two daughters: Judith Roche and Tamara Jackson.  He is also survived by his son, Edzer Roche and his daughter, Marie Antionette Laurent. He leaves behind his grandchildren who he fervently loved: Harryson, Chelsea, Sophie, Olivia, Noel, Julien, Carrington, Edrianne, Zacchary, Alexander, and Laila.  He is also survived by his sons and daughters- in law, siblings, nephews, nieces, and many friends who came to see him as family.

He met his beautiful wife when he used to visit a friend in her neighborhood.  She partially hid behind a fence with the hope that he would see her, and when he did, he gifted her with a smile. Most likely, Yon souri pa anba (as he often loved to give). When he began courting her, he purchased food to gain entrance to her home, in order to win over her guard dog. Seven months later, they were married on March 6, 1965.

A successful businessman in Haiti, he moved to New York on June 2, 1970 seeking a brighter future for his children.  With his wife Causette by his side, he worked to ensure that his children were raised with principle and obtained the highest levels of education.  To him an educated mind was an invaluable one. In hearing of his passing a family friend recalled a fond memory of him setting up spelling bees for his daughter and her classmates at his home, often giving away cash prizes. His children recall that on a weekly basis he lectured them on the importance of one's principles, as they journeyed through their life choices.  His favorite phrase was, "It's the principle behind it."

He was a man of laughter, love, and showed immeasurable strength. He loved to go on cruises and spend time with his family.  He was very much a family man and a patriarch. He often played Monopoly, his favorite board game, with his children, and affectionately teased them endlessly as they played.   His favorite card game by far was Besigue , which he enjoyed playing with friends. As part of the rules of the game, one must stand when losing.  Up to his last month before his passing he continued to play, but his friends encouraged him to sit down to preserve his strength and his response was always, "If I can't play as it is meant to be played, I will not play at all." Even toward the end, his worry was for his loved ones. He told them to show strength and courage.  He made sure that all knew of his love for them. He was truly loved and a great and admirable man.

His faith and his love for God was strong and steadfast.  He has joined his mother, Milia, and his sister, Ruth, as he now sits with God, the Father, in peace watching over us.

Funeral Services

March 30, 2019 at 9:00 AM

Palm Beach National Chapel

10055 Heritage Farms Road

Lake Worth, FL 33449

Officiating

Deacon Joe of Saint Rita's Catholic Church

Internment

Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery

2:00 PM

10941 Southern Boulevard

Royal Palm Beach, Fl 33411

Celebration of Life Reception

3:00 PM

13265 Okeechobee Boulevard

Loxahatchee, FL 33470