David Eric Roach

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits David Eric Roach who was indeed a born leader. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Dave was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Dave knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

Dave was born on June 21, 1963 in Indianapolis, Indiana and spent most of his life there. He and his family relocated to Tampa, Florida in 2013. His parents were Pauline "Pat" and Eddie "Slick" Roach. Even as a youngster, Dave learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

As a young boy, Dave was able to put his natural abilities to work. He was the anchor of the family, helping to make sure that the others did what they should do and encourage them to avoid the things they weren’t supposed to. In other words, he liked to organize and direct. Dave was raised with two older brothers, Wayne and Mike. Dave, his brothers, and cousins, who were very close, would be riding bikes, motorcycles, and go-karts in the neighborhood and playing baseball, softball, basketball at The American Legion, Post 64, which was close to his home. He also spent a lot of time with friends and family at the Tibbs Drive-In where his older cousin worked. Although Dave was the youngest, he was the guiding force of his family.

Dave's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a teenager he became a Cadet Firefighter. All of his spare time was spent hanging out at Wayne Township Fire Department, Station #3 learning from the men who were older and more experienced. Through his hard work and dedication he earned the title of Lieutenant of Heavy Fire Rescue, which he was very proud of. In addition to being a Lieutenant, he also worked for Burger King, which he later made into a successful career with the support and guidance of his mentors, Fred Kaufman and Dick Deignan. His success and talent followed him to Tampa, Florida when he joined Quality Dining in 2014 working for CJ And Dan Fitzpatrick, who he had the upmost respect for.

Dave was sociable and approachable. Because he was always so straightforward in how he approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. He enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Dave was a member of a group, his interaction worked to keep the others grounded. He wasn’t afraid to confront his friends and, when necessary, he challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Dave came to expect his high standards of performance. Dave became friends with many small business owners in and around the Indianapolis area and enjoyed spending time with them and the many people whom he had met through them. More times than not, you would see him with his best friend, Phil Ventura. He also remained close to his cousins and enjoyed spending time with Randy, Earl, Darrell, Charlie, Willie, whether they were attending sporting events, being competitive on a golf course, softball field, or in a bowling alley; playing billiards or cards, or just hanging out at someone's house, Dave was the life of the party. Playing by the rules and competition was a natural thing for Dave to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. He also enjoyed watching and attending his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were professional and college football, professional and college basketball, golf, and Nascar.

An objective and conscientious individual, Dave reveled in the security of his family. On November 12, 2010 Dave exchanged wedding vows with Lori Ruffin in Champaign, Illinois. Dave and Lori had four children between them; Brandi (mom, Robin Whitaker); Justin and Eric (mom, Cindy Craney); and Brooklynn (father, Larry Paulen). Dave was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. He would give his stamp of approval to their requests, as long as he could see how they might benefit. He also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. In 2011 he was blessed with his grandson, Liam, who he loved dearly. Dave was a lover of animals and cherished his dogs. Three held a special place in his heart; Morgan, Rascal, and Maverick, his grand-dog. His family was rounded out by his other 4 dogs, Rylee, Bandit, Moe and Curly.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Dave was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent leader, Dave was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Dave upheld his standards. Throughout his career, he managed, owned, and operated a variety of concepts in the restaurant industry, including Burger King, Qdoba, Noodles and Company, and Rally's. He was deeply respected and loved by peers, managers, and owners. His passion was undeniable and his talent unmatched. Dave was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done".

Politically, Dave was a supporter of the Republican Party and loved Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump. His Sunday mornings consisted of watching Fox News with Chris Wallace so he could see if there was anything he missed throughout the week. He would then look forward to Meet the Press with Chuck Todd so he could yell at the TV and follow up with a colorful Facebook post.

Faith was important to Dave. Although he did not attend church on a regular basis, he believed in God and held high moral standards. He was worried about the moral decay he saw around him and how his children and grandchildren would be affected. He enjoyed attending Northview Church and listening to pastor Steve Poe.

Dave passed away on November 15, 2018 at his home in Riverview, Florida. Dave fought the most courageous battle with Sepsis and Endocarditis. He is survived by his wife, Lori; his daughter, Brandi (Jason), sons Justin and Eric, and step-daughter, Brooklynn; his brother Wayne; and grandson Liam. Dave's final resting place will be at Dale Hollow Lake in Tennessee where he spent his most memorable vacations with friends and family.

All who knew him would agree that Dave was a pillar of the community. He lived with his feet firmly on the ground and enjoyed life to the fullest. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. David Eric Roach did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person. His boisterous laugh and gleaming smile will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, online donations may be made at the following link: