Brian Roche

Brian Craig Roche, 34, died at his residence in Whitefish after his valiant battle with melanoma for almost three years.

He was born Jan. 8, 1972, in La Mirada, Calif., the son of Mike and Karen (Coppedge) Roche. His father lived in various states during his military career. When the family moved back to the Flathead Valley in 1984, this was a first time in the Flathead for both Brian and his sister Diana.

Brian played football and wrestled while going to Flathead High School and graduated in 1990.

He worked as a chef in both Portland and the Flathead Valley. Brian helped with the construction of the chairlifts at Big Mountain and Blacktail Mountain and helped on the construction of the golf course at Iron Horse. He was involved in home construction until his illness.

Brian won numerous championships and placed at the National Snowboard Championships in 1998. He learned to surf while undergoing cancer treatment. He enjoyed his motorcycles, hunting, fishing, camping, cooking, skateboarding and, above all, he loved his family, friends and dogs, Sirinuk, Kiska and Ammy.

He is survived by his parents Mike and Karen Roche; his sister Diana Harrison and husband Scott; nephews Jay and Drew Harrison, of Kalispell; niece Sara Harrison, of Kalispell; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A memorial celebration was held July 17, 2006, at Brian's house in Whitefish.

The family suggests donations be made to Home Options Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100, Kalispell MT 59901 or a charity of the donor's choice.