End of comment */
Call Now Available 24/7 (401)245-4999

Call Now Available 24/7 (401)245-4999

Call Now Available 24/7 (401)245-4999

Call Now Available 24/7 (401)245-4999

In Our Care

Walter M. Rocha

11/9/1950 - 1/29/2017

Text:

Obituary For Walter M. Rocha

Bristol --- Walter M. Rocha, 66, of Bristol died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017 at RI Hospital.

He was the husband of Rose (Ferrara) Rocha.

He was born in Feteiras, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal a son of the late Jose and Maria (Raposo) Rocha.

Walter was the Park Manager of Colt State Park, for 20 years before he retired. Samuel P. Colt established the Colt Farm in the early 1900s. He would have been proud of Walters Stewardship, As Walter had and integral part in caring for the property, we know as Colt State Park for over 35 years.

Walter began his career with the State D.E.M. Parks and Recreation Division in 1972. He rose through the ranks to Caretaker Supervisor in 1976, and then Park Manager in 1986, where he continued in that capacity until he retired in 2007.

As park Manager, Walter was responsible for the State of RIs East Bay recreational areas, which include the East Bay Bike Path, and Haines Memorial State Park.

He oversaw full time maintenance staff as well as dozens of seasonal park rangers. Walter took pride in his work as well as his contribution to the quality of life for the many thousands of people who visited Colt Park during his career.

Walter, has been a Bristol resident since he was 10 years old, coming from Portugal, he was a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Church. He was a life member of the Bristol Fire Dept. Hydraulions Engine -1, a member of the Bristol ELKS and was a former Trustee for them.

He was a member of the Bristol F.O.P. Lodge 28, and was on the Bristol Fire- Police.

Besides his wife he is survived by 2 sons Walter B. Rocha of Bristol, and Raymond Rocha of East Providence.

He was the brother of Joseph Joe Rocha of Tiverton, Fernando Rocha of Bristol, and Mariano Mario Rocha of Somerset Ma. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews.

His funeral will be held Friday, February 3, 2017 at 9:30am from the Smith Funeral and Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Road, Warren, followed by a mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am in St. Elizabeth Church, 577 Wood St., Bristol. Burial will follow in North Burial Ground, Hope St, Bristol.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling Hours are Thursday from 5 8pm.

Gifts in his memory may be sent to the Bristol Rescue, 4 Annawamscutt Drive, Bristol RI, 02809

www.wjsmithfh.com

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

  • 04/27/2021

    Carolee A. Leach

    Mr walter rocha nice guy love everyone meet colt state park and great member of Bristol ri fire department never forgotten live on heart family member rip to

  • 04/27/2021

    Carolee A. Leach

    Dear Rocha Family, My deepest condolences on Walter's passing. I knew Walter as the Manger at Colt State Park for many years. Colt was one of the nicest parks in R.I. and Walter had much to do in maintaining it's beauty. May fond memories of Walter bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.

  • 04/27/2021

    Carolee A. Leach

    So sorry to hear of Walter's passing. He was good person and friend for over 25 years. My thoughts and prayers are with Walter's family and friends.

  • 04/27/2021

    Carolee A. Leach

    we all are going to miss you Mr. Rocha, you were a great father and a great man , may you fly with the angels now. Love you

  • 04/27/2021

    Carolee A. Leach

    Rocha Family. I am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of working with Walter at the Colt and Haines Park Farmers Markets for many years. He was a great man and I will miss him.

  • 04/27/2021

    Carolee A. Leach

    Dear Rosita, SO very sorry to hear... Carolee

Add a Candle or Spiritual Image

Click below to add to your message.