Paul Anthony Rocha

Paul Rocha, age 63, left this world to join the Lord on April 11, 2026. He was born on March 15, 1962, to Pedro Rocha and Bertha Martinez Rocha, in Corpus Christi, TX., where he grew up and met his future wife, Cynthia Ann Soliz. Together they had a son, Anthony Soliz-Rocha, who became the center of their lives. With open arms, they welcomed his wife, Annette Denton, into their happy family. Paul was overjoyed at meeting Alice Maria Soliz-Rocha, his new granddaughter, shortly before his passing.

Paul is preceded in death by his: Parents, Pedro Rocha and Bertha Martinez Rocha; ln-laws, Ramiro Soliz, Jr and Judy Del Llano Soliz, baby sister-in-law, Priscilla Soliz; and Grandchild, Guadalupe Denton Soliz-Rocha, who were integral to his family.

He leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Cynthia Ann Soliz; son, Anthony Soliz-Rocha; daughter-in-law, Annette Soliz-Rocha; granddaughter, Miss Alice Maria Soliz-Rocha; brothers, Rodney and Dennis Rocha; sister-in-law, Debby Soliz Montelongo (Alfred); brother-in-law, Ramiro Soliz, III (Melinda); best friends, Mark and Lisa Meysembourg; a niece, nephews, great nephews, and a great niece; and many family friends, to share all the wonderful memories of his presence on Earth.

He dutifully served his country in the Gulf War, and returned afflicted with Gulf War syndrome. Despite his pain, he never showed it. He greeted everyone one he met, friend and stranger, with a quick smile and greeting. He served his Catholic faith as a Eucharistic Minister and aided anyone that needed help. Some of his happiest moments were created as a Boy Scout leader to his son’s Boy Scout Troop on their many journeys to camps and conferences. He was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys and never missed a game. His biggest thrill was going to Dallas to watch the Cowboys play decked out in Cowboys jersey, hat and cheer.

His dedication to his family was without measure. He would get up in the wee hours of the morning to bake bread at the Pan Pin Bakery that they bought from his in-laws. Sleepy- eyed, he would joke about ”Time to make the doughnuts at the Pan Pin Bakery!” and carry on in providing for his family. He would later join the U.S. Army and was transferred to Germany where he and his family lived for many years. He had been bitten by the travel bug, and he took his family throughout Europe, traveling to places they will never forget. Back home, he would make the long drive to Garner State Park where they would camp and revel in the cool waters of the Frio River during the hot summers. He shared his love of movie classics with his son who wondered why the movies were in black and white. He would tirelessly drive his son and his friends to all the school functions and never tired of telling corny jokes. His beloved dogs, Patches, Comet and Louis, kept him company in his life and comforted him at the end. Even when his illness disabled him, he would delight his mother-in-law, Judy Soliz, by taking her a forbidden pleasure of coffee and doughnuts. His caring was not limited. He visited his mother-in-law daily, until her passing, keeping her company and letting the rest of the family know how she was doing. He was a kind, generous individual, compassionate to no end. He took care of his father in his final years and moved in with him to personally attend to his needs. His presence was enjoyed by everyone and his benevolence, humor, and smiles will never be forgotten. His presence will certainly be missed.

The family is extremely grateful for all the prayers, support, and love from their extended family, friends, and Killeen Independent School District staff, especially the Special Education department. A special thank you to the doctors and staff at William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Nursing Home and Baylor Scott and White's Neurology ICU and Special Treatment Center in Temple for their utmost care, kindness, and dedication.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Paul's memory.