Martin Rocha

Rocha, Martin a 54 year resident of Gardena, passed away on November 14, 2004, in Gardena. Born in Calabasas, CA, Martin was 78 when he died. Martin had served in the Navy during World War II and he was a survivor of the U.S.S.Franklin. He was a parishoner of St. Anthony Padua Church for 54 years and was selected as a member of the Wall of Fame of the City of Gardena. Whereas, in addition to his duties as Commissioner, Martin, after his retirement from U.S. Steel, served unselfishly as a member of the Gardena Elks Lodge 1919 having been recognized as Elk of the year in 1996-1997; and has worked tirelessly with the Senior Citizen Bureau to deliver SCAMP Program Meals on Wheels to homebound residents of Gardena. He continued as an active member of community organizations including Gardena Sister City Association, the Cinco De Mayo Celebration Committee, the Old Timers of Gardena Association, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, and was even known to don a red suit, shiny black boots and a beard to assist the Gardena Police Dept. in their efforts to bring joy to many community youngsters during the Christmas holiday. He is survived by his wife Helen, son Victor and daughter Reyne and 3 grandchildren. Visitation and reception will be Friday, November 19, 2004 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with Vigil at 7:00 PM at McMillan McCormick Mortuary in Gardena. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, November 20, 2004, 10:00 AM at The Risen Christ Chapel in Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City. Committal will follow in Holy Cross Mausoleum.