Patrick Poppa Rocha

Born in Houston on September 29, 1998, Patrick Poppa Rocha was a beloved son, brother, father, and friend. His passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, especially his three-year-old daughter, Evelyse.

Patrick spent his formative years at St. Augustine Catholic School and St. Thomas High School. When it came time to choose a profession, he followed in his father's footsteps and joined the brotherhood and sisterhood of firefighting, becoming a Houston firefighter in November of 2021. It was evident from the start that Patrick possessed an unwavering commitment to protecting and saving lives.

Beyond his dedication to firefighting, Patrick embraced a multitude of passions. He loved the camaraderie and competition of wrestling, football, baseball and cycling, completing the grueling hills of the annual BP MS 150 charity bicycle ride to Austin.

Patrick was also a talented ceramic artist and photographer, capturing life's moments through the camera's lens. He cherished time on the family's boat, found joy and creativity in the artistry of landscaping and floristry, and inspired young athletes as a volunteer wrestling coach at Milby High School.

Patrick's love for Evelyse was boundless. He reserved the most significant place in his heart for her. From park dates to having mini concerts in the car, their time spent together was always filled with laughter. One of his proudest moments as a father was accomplishing the difficult feat of styling a squirmy three-year-old's pigtails.

As a firefighter, Patrick found fulfillment in the ability to save lives, the constant thrill of action, and the strong bond he shared with his firefighting brothers and sisters. He deeply loved and appreciated the support of his surviving family members, especially his mother and father, Houston Fire Department District Chief Theodore Rocha and Elsa Rocha, sisters Arianna Rodriguez and Estreya Rocha, the Rocha family, Ayden and Oscar Rodriguez and family, the Torres family, and all of the lifelong friends that became family.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to their close family and friends for their unwavering support. They extend heartfelt thanks to Father Henry, St. Augustine Catholic Church, the Houston Fire Department, and the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association for their assistance and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the following 529 plan setup for Evelyse A. Rocha.

Checks can be mailed to:

Merrill Lynch

800 Capitol St.,

Ste. 1900

Houston, Texas 77002

Attn: Evelyse A. Rocha 529 Plan

Please make checks payable to: Evelyse A. Rocha

Reference: 529 Plan Contribution

A visitation for Patrick will be held Monday, May 15, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. A rosary service will occur at 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, May 16, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St Augustine Catholic Church, 5560 Laurel Creek Way, Houston, Texas 77017. A committal service will follow at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery. A reception will occur Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Mamaritas Event Venue, 7325 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77505.