Harold Wayne Roach

Harold "Wayne" Roach, age 94, of Orlando, FL passed away in his home surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at his home.

Wayne was born on May 5, 1928 in Ironton, OH, the youngest of nine children and the 'seventh son' of a 'seventh son.' His parents were the late Charles and Emma (Campbell) Roach. After graduation from Ironton High in 1948, Wayne began honorably serving his country as a member of the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Later Wayne was relocated to Orlando and McCoy Air Force Base. During this time he met the love of his life, Vicki. The DAY she graduated from Nursing School, August 23, 1952, they were married, and lived happily for 52 years. (Vicki preceded him in death in 2004.) During this time they settled in the brand new neighborhood of 'Pine Hills.' Here he quickly joined in on the "magic" of those days. While serving his post as a Naval Defense Supervisor, he joined the West Orlando Optimist Club, the Masonic Lodge and First Baptist Church of Pine Hills. They welcomed a daughter, Sandra and the busy lives of a family.

He was known up and down the street by all the children and especially the adults as the person that could "fix it," it didn't matter what it was, he could fix it. He would quickly pitch in to assist with any project or something that needed to be built. He was an outdoorsman before it was popular. Known to bring home animals, try a fishing trip, or a campout. The fun only began as the grandchildren arrived and his family became a great source of pride for Wayne. They were truly the "apple of his eye" and he delighted in their visits and the activities of their lives. After retirement in 1985, he and Vicki relocated to a retirement community in Central Florida where they spent the remainder of their lives.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, six brothers, and two sisters. He is survived by his daughter, Sandra Kay Opperman and her husband, Don, of Oldsmar, FL; four grandchildren, Donnie Opperman, Michael Opperman, Ashley Opperman, and Lindsey Berner; and great-grandchild, Everett Berner.

A graveside committal service with full military honors will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 11:00 am at Rose Hill Cemetery, Kissimmee, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate it if you could share a special memory or leave a special condolence message on the digital guestbook (visit the guestbook below) or with them personally.