Jesse George Rocha

Jesse George Rocha was born on March 5, 1937 in Eureka, California to Joe and Caroline Rocha. He passed into the loving arms of Christ on September 24, 2018 at the age of 81. Jesse grew up primarily in Tulare County. He graduated from Porterville College and began working for the Department of Corrections as a correctional officer. He married Mary Elsie Pereira in 1962 and the young couple started their life together in Porterville, moving shortly thereafter to Morro Bay, California, where they welcomed two sons. The following years brought several moves, two daughters and another son. The family settled in Visalia in 1972. Jesse was very involved in the Church and called St. Mary's parish home. He taught catechism classes for 35 years, served as a bible study leader and was devoted to weekly adoration and bringing the eucharist to the sick through the Christopher Ministry. He was also active in the Knights of Columbus and was a 4th degree knight. He was involved in school and community activities as well, volunteering as a little league umpire and serving as the Mt. Whitney band booster president. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His greatest joy was his family and his personal relationship with God. He ended his career as a parole officer, retiring from the state of California in 1992. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary Elsie Rocha, his son Michael Rocha and wife Sherri, his son Joseph Rocha and wife Laurie, his daughter Elaine Castro and husband Rodney, his daughter Carolyn Childers and husband Sid, his son David Rocha and wife Katrina, grandchildren Allison Rocha, Stephen Rocha and wife Alexis, Matthew Rocha, Jacob Rocha, and Noah Childers, great-grandson Emerson Rocha, brothers Joe Rocha Jr., Frank Rocha, Tony Rocha and sister Alverina Sturdivant, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and wonderful friends. Jesse will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched. His greatest legacy is his great capacity for love and joy and his faith in God and we are grateful to have shared in his wonderful life. We will love you forever, Dad. Jesse will be laid to rest at the Tulare Cemetery on Kern following a funeral mass at St. Mary's parish in Visalia, California, at 10:00 am on Tuesday, October 2nd. The Rosary will be on Monday, October 1st, 6:00 pm and a viewing will be from 4 PM to 7PM at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel in Visalia. Condolences can be made to www.salseranddillard.com

Jesse George Rocha

March 5, 1937 - September 24, 2018