Viola Vi' Marie Roche

Viola “Vi” Marie Roche, 89 of Carmel passed away July 3, 2016. Vi was born March 9, 1927 in Marion, IN to the late George O. and Essie Morris. She graduated in 1948 with a R.N. degree from Indiana University School of Nursing. Vi began her nursing career as a pediatric nurse at James Whitcomb Riley Hospital before assisting a pediatrician in private practice. Shortly, she joined her husband’s pediatric dentistry practice and worked with him as office manager for 18 years. She later returned to IU Medical Center where she worked in obstetrics before joining a special Rheumatology Team.

Vi and Jim Roche were married at Roberts Park United Methodist Church in 1949, where she was a devoted member. She continued her love for Jesus and children with her dedicated work as Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher at Roberts Park. Vi was an excellent pianist and participated in several notable religious services in Marion, IN during her High School years.
Vi served as President of the Faculty Wives’ Club of IU School of Dentistry, Chair of Dental Health Education for Alliance (Women’s Auxiliary) of the American Dental Association, the Indiana Dental Association and the Indianapolis District Dental Society. Also, she served as the Administrative Assistant in the executive office of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry for 14 years.
Family and friends are invited to gather from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Friday, July 8 at Flanner and Buchanan- Carmel. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am Saturday, July 9 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, of which she was a member. Burial will be at Gravel Lawn Cemetery, Fortville, IN.
Vi is survived by her husband of 67 years, Dr. James R. Roche; daughter, Ann M. (husband, Steve H.) Potter; granddaughters, Allison M. (husband, Zack S.) Parker, Kelly A. (husband, Andy J.) Smith and Kendall N. (husband, Luke C.) Hinton; great-grandchildren, Stone M. and Ainsley M. Parker, Tucker J. and Livie A. Smith, Pax A. and Story S. Hinton.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church or James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children. Please visit flannerbuchanan.com to sign the online guest register.