July 2, 1949 – September 5, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brian Roque, age 77, of The Pas, Manitoba, on September 5th, 2026.
Born in Little Current, Ontario and raised in Killarney Ontario. Brian made his home in The Pas in the early 1980’s, where he became a well-known and respected member of the community. He dedicated many years of his working life as an Audio-Visual Technician at Keewatin Community College. Now known as University College of the North (UCN) Brian believed deeply in giving back to his community. Over the years, he generously shared his time, energy, and talents with many organizations and boards, He was a proud member of The Pas Kinsmen and The Pas Oldtimers Hockey. He served on the Kelsey School Division School Board, Town Council, Aurora House, Sam Waller Museum, and Fisher Place just to name a few.
When Brian met Sheila at a Grey Cup party in 1988, he found his match. He then learned that she had two teenage children as well. Brian, who was up for any challenge, helped Sheila raise them like they were his own. He was always helping with homework, teaching them the “proper way” to load a dishwasher, turning a crappy shed into a “Friends Forever” party for Kim, teaching them how to drive and allowing Kim to have “just one more” cat. His children were his world and was always there when they needed him. Caption Brian was extremely proud of all of his grandchildren. You could always find him cheering them on at any one of their sporting events (especially curling), playing a round of golf, tapping his toes at a band concert, or playing a good game a cribbage or chess at the cabin at Setting Lake. He loved taking the boys to the dog sled races at Trapper’s Festival, a quick pancake breakfast after the races and some hot chocolate after the cold Trapper’s parade. Grandpa was always very patient, kind and always made sure his grandchildren were taken care of. He loved his grandchildren deeply.
Brian will be lovingly remembered by his wife Sheila Roque, his children: Dale Watts (Jennifer), Rocky Mountain House, Alberta and Kimberley Katcher (Kelly), The Pas, Manitoba. His brother Perry Roque, Brandon, Manitoba, sisters: Jeannie Joy (Larry predeceased), Thunder Bay, Ontario, Mary Roque (Pat), Killarney Ontario, Alice Burke (Brian), Thunder Bay Ontario, as well as son-in-law Derek Katcher, The Pas, Manitoba and sister-in-law Toni Roque. Thompson, Manitoba. He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Mitchell Katcher, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Jeremy (Austyn), Justin and Ethan Katcher, The Pas, Manitoba, Erica Watts, Calgary, Alberta, Jacob Watts, Claresholm, Alberta, along with many nieces and nephews who were very dear to him.
Brian was predeceased by his parents Basil and Margaret Roque, his sisters Colleen and Connie Roque, his brother Joe Roque, niece Rochelle Roque and nephew Craig Burke.
Brian’s life was defined by his love for his family, his commitment to his community, and the many relationships he built throughout his years. Brian was a husband, a father, a son, a brother, an uncle and a grandpa. He was always there, even if it meant giving a ride home from a party, a hand to help clean up after a ceiling falls down or just a hug or a laugh.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and former colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched through his kindness, generosity and service. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Brian’s cremated remains will travel to Killarney, Ontario for his farewell in July 2027.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Brian’s memorial page using the comment field below.