Richard James Rock, 75, formerly of Center Township, entered into eternal life September 9, 2020, surrounded by the love of his life, Janice, and daughters. Β He fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 2, 1945 in Aliquippa, PA. He was the last surviving child of Joseph & Laura Steinbaugh Rock. Rich was the proud owner/operator of R & J Trucking. He later retired as the Public Works Foreman for Rochester Township. He served his community as a Volunteer Fireman for over 30 years with Center Township #3 Fire Department, once holding the position of Captain. In his later years, he served as Fire Police. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Center Township, where he once served on council. He and Jan enjoyed over 20 years at their camp in Holiday Camplands, Andover, OH, recently making it their permanent residence, where they made lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and 11 siblings, Virginia, Laurabelle, Eleanor, Mary, Annabelle, Josephine, Joseph, Charlie, Jimmy, Lawrence, and Melvin. His in-laws, Dave & Ruth Stewart, and his son-in-law, Robert Marshall.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Janice (Stewart) Rock, with whom we would have celebrated 51 years of marriage on September 13. His three loving daughters that he was so proud of, Tammi Rock Marshall, Savannah , GA, Traci Rock Hupp (Ed), Chippewa Township and Kristie Rock Miles (Brian Eldridge) Center Township. Two granddaughters that were the light of his life, Katelyn Miles and Alexa Hupp. Anyone who knew Rich, knew he was a lover of all animals. Especially his two fur babies, Buffy Lynn and Lucky with whom he will be reunited , and his grand fur babies, Minny and Max. He was the Patriarch of the Rock Family and is survived by many nieces and nephews. Through his journey, our Dad received wonderful medical care from Dr. Mitchell Pfeiffer, The Hillman Cancer Center, and the Doctors and Nursing Staff at UPMC Horizon Greenville and New Castle. To the the Doctors and staff at UPMC Horizon β Jameson thank you for the wonderful care that was given to our family. They made our Dad as comfortable as can be as he transitioned to his heavenly home.
Friends will be received Friday, September 11, 2020 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm in the Simpson Funeral Home and Cremation, 1119 Washington Ave., Monaca, 724-728-4000. His service will take place at the funeral home on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at 11am.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Beaver County Humane Society.
To share online condolences, light a memorial candle, add photos, and other information, please visit his permanent memorial at simpsonfuneralhome.com.