Jack "Rabbit" Richard Roffler's Obituary
Jack Richard Roffler of Lakewood, 89, passed away peacefully at Manor Care Health Services on August 14, 2014. He was born October 7, 1924, in Pine City, WA, to Richard and Minnie Elma Roffler. He was Valedictorian of his class at Pine City High School in 1941.
He graduated from Eastern Washington State College in 1946 with a degree in Education where he was a Hall of Fame basketball player who earned the nickname “Rabbit” because of his quickness on the court. He then played professionally for the Springfield (MO) Squires and Tacoma Mountaineers before he met his wife, Janice (Brown).
Settling in Port Townsend, he was a devoted husband and father while he taught school for the next thirty-one years. An accomplished basketball official as well, he was presented a meritorious award from the WIAA for twenty-five years of service as a top rated referee who was selected to numerous state tournaments.
Jack entertained many with his uncanny ability to tell stories and jokes, and his fun loving personality made those in his company feel welcome. He was also a master crossword puzzle worker which kept his mind sharp, and he stayed in great physical condition through a steady regimen of exercise and a healthy diet.
He is survived by his wife, Janice (his partner in life for 59 years), daughters Candy and Susie, sons Jack, Jr. (Cheryl) and Jim (Elizabeth), and is known as Papa to eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Husband, Dad, Papa, Rabbit, Referee, and Jokester will be deeply missed by many!
Our family wants to thank the nurses and CNA’s at Manor Care for the love and care they gave to Papa until the time he went to be with the Lord.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date.
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