Derek "Big D Roch" Steven Rocha

Oct. 19, 1979 - Feb. 13, 2011

Derek passed away tragically on February 13, 2011 near Modesto at the age of 31.

He was born in Turlock and was raised in Hilmar. He attended Hilmar schools, graduating in 1997. He received his AS degree from MJC in Computer Science. He worked for JHL Office Interiors for the past ten years as a computer graphics designer and salesman. He was especially talented in computer and sound systems technology. He was a master of many trades and always willing to help anyone of his friends and their friends. He was talented, creative, funny, and witty. His skills and abilities varied from building and riding quads, playing sports to designing his own house and custom line of clothing.

He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He had a special affection for everyone, especially children who adored him. He will be dearly missed by this lovely wife, Michelle; his loving parents, Carlos and Tina Rocha; his sister Kartie Torres and her husband Rob;his grandparents Antonio and Olinda Enes, his father and mother in-law, Tony & Delfina Morris; his aunts and uncles, Isabel & Phil Tellerine, Maria & Ernie Longoria, Victor & Barbara Rocha, Fatima & John Dias, Celina & Joe Rocha, Rosa & Joaquim Fraga, and Joe & Yvonne Enes; and his sister and brother in-laws, Laurie & Clarence Oliveira, Stephanie & Michael Ralls, Nancy & Johnnie Azevedo, and Diana Morris. He also leaves behind much-loved cousins, nieces, and godchildren.

While his life was too short on this earth, he left so many memories that will be treasured forever by his family and friends. May he be in peace with The Lord enjoying the fruits of heaven.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Hilmar Holy Rosary Church New Building Fund,"Holy Rosary New Church Building Fund, P.B.Box 429, Hilmar CA 95324", or to the New St. Stanislaus Church in Modesto, "St. Stanislaus Church, 1200 Maze Blvd., Modesto, CA 95351"

Visitation will be held at whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Chapel in Turlock on Thursday, February 17 from 11:00-5:00 PM. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:00 PM at Holy Rosary Church in Hilmar. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday February 18, at 10:00 AM at Holy Rosary Church in Hilmar with internment to follow at Hilmar Cemetery