Biff Roche

Bertha “Biff” Roche passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, surrounded by love. Biff was truly one of a kind, living each day to the fullest with energy, curiosity, and compassion.

Born on November 23, 1935, in Decatur, Illinois, to Carl and Bertha Motschall, Biff enjoyed a joyful childhood with her five siblings. She cherished neighborhood baseball games, and early community service, including raising funds for the American Red Cross. She also loved modern dance during her high school years.

Biff married William “Bill” Roche, with whom she shared 42 wonderful years. Together they raised four children; Bill, Peter, Tracey, and John. After living in many cities across the country, she and Bill settled in Kirkland, WA, to raise their family.

While raising her children, Biff discovered a love of bridge. What began as a fun pastime grew into a lifelong passion. She played actively with friends for decades and continued to play until the very end of her life, treasuring both the challenge of the game and the lasting friendships it brought her.

Her love of travel also blossomed during those years and became a defining joy of her life. A lifelong learner at heart, she twice sailed with Semester at Sea and continued to stay connected with the many students she met on the ship. Later in life, she continued her adventurous spirit with her annual sister trips.

Biff was a passionate croquet player, beginning competitive play in 1985. She was a longtime member of the Puget Sound Croquet Club in Seattle and the Mission Hills Croquet Club in Rancho Mirage. She brought joy, sportsmanship, and a sense of fun to the game, even after she could no longer play herself, and she cherished the friendships it brought her.

As she once said, “Croquet is a wonderful game for people who want to stay active, competitive, and mentally sharp. It’s the most intellectually challenging game I’ve ever played, and I’ve had the opportunity to meet the most intelligent people all over the world. It relies on your integrity, honesty, and best instincts.”

Away from the croquet court, Biff also found joy in her kitchen. She was a good cook and loved entertaining and bringing people together. She enjoyed her martini group, holiday dinners, and any reason to celebrate.

Known for her generosity of spirit, Biff donated her time, talents, and resources throughout her life. She devoted much of her volunteer work to Seattle’s Pike Place Market and the Palm Springs Museum of Flight.

She was the proud grandmother of six grandchildren: Nick, Brooks, Kelsie, Breanne, Butch, and Tess, as well as several great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy. She shared a particularly close bond with her daughter Tracey and granddaughter Tess, whose love and companionship were a constant source of happiness in her later years.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family and friends. We find comfort knowing she is now at home with Jesus Christ, her Savior.