Charles Joseph Roach

Charles Joseph Roach, 96, of Lufkin died Tuesday, February 20, 2018 in Lufkin. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Carroway Funeral Home.

Charles and his wife Jan, moved to Lufkin from California, to be with family. Charles was proud to be a Texan and treasured his time in the beautiful state of Texas.

Charles was born May 30, 1921 in Shullsburg, Wisconsin to Andrew and Rose (Ertmer) Roach. He was the 5th of seven children in the family. Charles was fortunate to live in interesting times, and to take advantage of the opportunities presented. As a teenager he earned a scholarship that allowed him to attend the University of Illinois. WWII interrupted his education plans but also gave him responsibility at a young age. After returning from serving in Europe, he met and married the woman who would be his life partner for the next 68 years. Together they had three children, Brian Charles, Joyce Barbara Parker and husband Lane, and Teresa Erin Wiggers and husband Rob. In 1952 they moved from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles where Charles worked in the emerging technology sector. Charles’ career path took many interesting turns, including medical automation, work on Air Force One security, cell phone technology, teaching at USC, farming, real estate and investments. Charles was a bold entrepreneur, willing to take the risks and endure the failures that sometimes came with it.

Fishing of all kinds and all places was always a great enjoyment for Charles, one that he was able to share with his son Brian and pass on to his daughter Joyce. Charles also enjoyed adventurous meals, always open to the secret “hole in the wall” places that only locals knew. He especially savored oysters.

Charles’ 96 years were years of amazing change in the world, from out houses to outer space. He relished all of it. His curiosity, enthusiasm and optimism will be missed.

The family would like to thank the staff of PineCrest and Hospice in the Pines for their compassionate care.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.