BARRE____It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of David Paul Roche, 58, of Barre on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. He was diagnosed recently with pancreatic cancer, a challenge that he met with quiet bravery and occasional wry humor.
Dave was born and raised in Worcester, later settling in Barre where he resided for the past 14 years. A soft-spoken gentle soul with a sly wit, he will leave a lasting impact on the people he loved.
Dave’s true passion was music. He was an avid supporter of the local rock-and-roll scene in Boston and Worcester. He played guitar and had varied tastes in music. His favorite bands included The Black Crowes, The Grateful Dead, and local punk bands. He filled in occasionally on a local radio show and had a Facebook page, Dave’s Subterranean Sandbox, dedicated to cover songs. Whether he was catching a show or championing local bands, his love for live music and the people who made it was unmatched!
He was a dedicated delivery driver for O'Reilly Auto Parts for several years. Prior to that, he worked at Park Avenue Pharmacy and Worcester Discount Liquors.
Dave was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Edna Roche of Worcester.
He will be lovingly remembered by his companion, Anne Briand of Barre and her family; his sister, Kim Forsyth and brother-in-law Brandon Forsyth of North Carolina; his niece, Jessica Oliveras and her husband, Emanuel Oliveras, and his great-nephew, Joseph Oliveras go Worcester; his dearest friends, Jim Amorello of Shrewsbury, Mike Dube of Dorchester, and Artie Sneiderman of Worcester, as well as extended family and countless friends in the local music community.
A gathering to celebrate Dave’s life and honor his memory will be held at a future date. Per his request, there will be no calling hours. To celebrate his love for local radio, the family asks that donations be made in his name to community radio 91.3 FM WCUW, where he often volunteered. Please visit WCUW.org/donate to contribute.