Terrence Patrick Roche

Terrence Patrick Roche, 72 (fondly known as “Terry” or “Coach”), beloved husband, cherished father, proud grandfather, loyal friend, legendary high school football coach, history teacher of 40 years, and revered mentor, passed away peacefully in his home on April 1, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of passion, dedication, and love that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

Terry was born in 1951 in Evanston, Illinois, to Brendan and Grace Roche. The family moved to Downey, California soon after. He went to St. Dominic Savio grammar school, and attended St. John Bosco High School (‘69). Terry played offensive guard at Bosco and continued his education and football career at Cerritos Junior College and Long Beach State, earning a BA degree in history. He married his high school sweetheart, Susan Tratz. They enjoyed a fun-filled marriage of 52 years and raised two children Brian and Rebecca, living primarily in Southern California. In the early years, as a family, they enjoyed trips to the Colorado River and the family cabin in Big Bear. Terry loved going to the beach with truckloads of kids. Being together as a family is what Terry loved best.

Terry was extremely active in the community including the Match-Two Outreach through the Chino Prison for 12 years befriending prisoners and giving them moral guidance. Terry also mentored at Boys Republic High School. He was an active member at the Chino YMCA and taught confirmation classes at both St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Ontario and St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Chino Hills.

Terry's journey was one defined by his unwavering commitment to excellence and his profound love for the game of football. From his early years, Terry exhibited a natural talent for leadership and a deep understanding of the sport, traits that would shape his remarkable career.

Terry's coaching career spanned over four decades, during which he touched the lives of countless players, colleagues, and fans. He was one of the most successful high school coaches in the entire CIF Southern Section, including coaching teams at Royal, Downey, Chowchilla, Ontario, St. John Bosco, Diamond Bar, and Chino Hills High Schools. Coach Roche’s overall career record was 223-82-7. His career as Diamond Bar High School's head coach was his most successful. Four CIF Southern Section Championships were won by Coach Roche in the years 1984, 1995, 1998, and 1999. The most impressive aspect about these teams was that they had three 14-0 seasons. His Diamond Bar teams also had victory streaks of 27 games in 1984–1985 and 26 games in 1999–2000.

As a coach, he instilled in his players not only the importance of skill and strategy but also the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Under his guidance, many young athletes found not only success on the field, but also learned invaluable life lessons that would serve them well beyond the game.

Off the field, Terry was a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in the love and laughter shared with his wife, 2 children, and 7 grandchildren. Terry never missed one of his grandchild’s school or sporting events. He loved taking his grandchildren to Knott’s Berry Farm, boat rides on his duffy, and golf cart adventures to feed the horses. Terry was their biggest fan! He was a pillar of strength and support for his family, always there to offer guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love.

In addition to his roles as coach and family man, Terry was a loyal friend and mentor to many. His wisdom, kindness, and genuine concern for others endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether on the sidelines, in the locker room, traveling the world with Vans, or in everyday life, Terry's impact was profound and far-reaching.

Terry Roche leaves behind a legacy that transcends the boundaries of the football field—a legacy of integrity, resilience, and love. While his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Terry is survived by his loving wife, Sue, his two children Brian and Rebecca, husband James Baty; his seven grandchildren: Adam, Clare, Jacob, Leah, Jackson, Grace, and Wyatt; siblings, Kathy, Mike, Mary, and Patty; and countless family members, a host of friends, colleagues, and former players who will carry his memory in their hearts forever.

On April 15, 2024, a Rosary will be held at St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower at 6:00 pm. A celebration of Terry's life will be held on April 16, 2024 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Chino Hills at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Coach Roche Foundation. This nonprofit foundation is based on Coach Roche’s award winning philosophies of hard work, fundamentals, and teamwork. The funds will be used specifically towards mentoring youth through athletics and sportsmanship in addition to empowering coaches. Donations can be made through Zelle at: [email protected] or mailed to:

Coach Roche Foundation

℅: Farmers & Merchants Bank

SLG Department 2nd Floor

12535 Seal Beach Blvd.

Seal Beach, CA 90740

Rest in peace, Coach. Your indomitable spirit and enduring legacy will live on in the hearts of every person that ever met you.