Ernest “Ernie” Rocha, 72, of Greeley, passed away on Sunday, March 6, 2016 at Hospice and Palliative Care of Northern Colorado, following a three-year brave battle with cancer.

Ernie was born on November 7, 1943 to Joe and Della (Ramirez) Rocha in Longmont, Colorado. He grew up in Longmont, graduating from Longmont High School in 1962.

He was known for his hard work ethic; being employed as a truck driver for most of his working career, and worked for Gallegos Sanitation, Inc. for the past 15 years and up to one week prior to his passing away.

Ernie and Devera Erickson were married on October 28, 1967, to which union three children were born: Travis Rocha, Jennifer Angove, and Heather Manenti. They later divorced.

Ernie married Patricia Stiff-Bailey on August 14, 2000 and made their home in Greeley, Colorado. Trish also passed away on March 6, 2016 at the Hospice Unit, just hours after Ernie.

Among some of Ernie’s favorite pastimes were camping in the mountains, fishing, riding his motorcycle, collecting Western artifacts, and shopping at flea markets. Ernie was also a devoted Bible student, and enjoyed sharing his beliefs as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Survivors include his three children; ex-wife Devera Hanson; grandchildren: Avden Angove, and Taylor Rocha; siblings: Neva (Darrell) Siemsen of Colorado Springs, Vivian (Larry) Wolfe and Martha (Art) Gallegos of Fort Collins; several nephews and nieces; and Trish’s son, Ray Erickson.

Preceding Ernie in death are his parents; siblings: Jessie Gonzales, Mary Betler, and Georganna Schweizer.

Memorial services announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made out to the Worldwide Work of Jehovah’s Witnesses, in care of Moser Funeral and Cremation Service, 3501 S. 11th Avenue, Evans, Colorado 80620.