Christine DeRocha

Obituary of Christine DeRocha

Christine DeRocha
March 30, 1967 – January 31, 2025
 
Christine DeRocha, a devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on January 31, 2025 at St. Peter’s Hospice Inn, after a long and courageous battle with colon cancer. She was born in White Plains, NY, at St. Agnes Hospital on March 30, 1967, and lived in Copake, NY.
 
Christine’s greatest pride and purpose in life was being a mother to her son, Lukas DeRocha. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for him, often cleaning houses while he was attending school. She left a lasting impression on many of her clients with her silly antics, caring heart, and warm spirit. Her kindness and light will never be forgotten.
 
Christine was also the loving sister to Michael DeRocha and his wife, Lisa, and is survived by several nieces, a nephew, her Aunt and Godmother Santa Coupe and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rose Anne and Anthony DeRocha.
 
Christine loved listening to music, and dancing was one of her greatest joys—her carefree spirit and love for life shone through in every moment. She was a loyal friend to many, especially her  dear friend Carol (Alice) Colangelo who was by her side through the ups and downs of her journey offering care, support and loving friendship. 
 
Christine was supported by an extraordinary group of family and friends, lovingly referred to as “The Village.” Their steadfast support and care for Christine and Lukas during her battle with cancer meant the world to her. You know who you are, and the family is deeply grateful for your unwavering kindness.
 
Her family is also deeply grateful for the exceptional care Christine received from Dr. Smith and the team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, whose dedication provided her additional time with Lukas, strength and comfort throughout her journey. A heartfelt thank you is also extended to Hospice Nurse Michelle, Pastor Matt, the Hospice volunteers and nurses whose kindness helped make Christine’s time at home and visit at the Community Hospice Inn comfortable and peaceful.
 
Christine’s loyal companions, Ebony and Hobbes, brought her joy and comfort throughout her life, and their presence will always be fondly remembered by those who visited with her.
 
Christine’s legacy of love, strength, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her memory will be cherished forever by those who were touched by her warmth, her laughter, and her unshakeable love for Lukas.
 
In honor of Christine’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Christine’s name to support Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (Checks payable to: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Attn: Community Fundraising, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Office of Development, PO Box 27106, New York NY 10087) or The Community Hospice (Checks payable to: The Community Hospice, The Community Hospice Foundation, 310 S. Manning Blvd, Albany NY12208). Anyone wishing to make a personal donation to assist Lukas during this transition may do so through GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/e21734cf or contact Hope DeRocha directly for other arrangements at hope2000530@gmail.com. 
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