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Roche Bros. Co-Founder Dies At 85

Bud Roche

Mr. Daniel F. “Bud” Roche, the retired co-founder and board chairman of Roche Bros. Inc. in Massachusetts and the founder of Hans Kissle Salad Co., died Wednesday. He was 85.

Bud RocheRoche, along with his brother Pat—who died last year—opened their first store in 1952 in Roslindale, Mass. This first meat and produce store expanded in 1957 to include a grocery department. The Wellesley-based company has since grown to 18 stores located throughout Greater Boston, Metro-West and Southern Massachusetts, including three Sudbury Farms locations. It’s the seventh largest food chain in New England.

Roche was inducted into the Food Industry Hall of Fame in 1992. He retired from the business in 1998, transitioning leadership to his son Jay and nephews Rick and Ed Roche.

In a message to Roche Bros.’ employees announcing Roche’s death, owners and operators Rick and Ed Roche, said: “With deep sadness, we regret to personally inform you of the passing of our dear uncle, Bud Roche. His loss is immeasurable to our family and our company.

“Always an inspiration and strong believer in the Golden Rule, Buddy drew his strength from his beloved wife Eileen, his loving family and all of you, his Roche Bros. family.

“Today, as we remember him with the fondest of memories, we know he would be truly rewarded by our sharing his beliefs in striving for the best in our daily lives.

“Thank you all for being part of Buddy’s life. We trust that your memories of him will serve as a lasting inspiration for charity, respect and responsibility.”

At the time of his death, Roche, a veteran sergeant of the U.S. Marine Corp., lived in Marco Island, Fla., and Needham, Mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Joseph Church at 1360 Highland Ave. in Needham at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10. Interment with military honors at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held in St. Joseph Church from 2-8 p.m. Monday. Donations in Roche’s name may be made to Sacred Heart School, 1035 Canterbury St., Roslindale, MA 02131.

Read more about Mr. Roche’s life and career here.

 

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