Francis (Ike) Roraback, 83, of Blue Hill Road in Great Barrington died peacefully in his home Feb. 26, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.
Ike was born Aug. 29, 1934, in North Canaan, Connecticut, to Theodore and Catherine (Buckbee) Roraback. Ike was enlisted into the U.S. Army in 1957. He served in the military police primarily in Munich, Germany, until his honorable discharge from service in 1959. During his time in service, Ike qualified as a rifle sharpshooter. Ike worked for Pfizer in Canaan, Connecticut, for 40 years before retiring in 1994. In his retirement, Ike enjoyed gardening and many trips to York Beach, Maine, with Barbara and his family. Ike particularly loved going to the Nubble Lighthouse, watching the ocean and walking along the beach. Ike was able to enjoy one last trip to York Beach just one week prior to his death.
Ike is survived by his loving wife, Barbara (Graham) of 49 years; his son, Jeffrey Roraback, of Great Barrington; and his daughter, Jennifer Cassaday, and husband Jeffery of Mesa, Arizona. Ike also leaves two grandchildren whom he adored: Jonathon Roraback and Cayleigh Cassaday. He was predeceased by his parents, four sisters and three brothers.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 3, 2018, at noon at FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME in Great Barrington, officiated by the Reverend Jill Graham, Ike’s sister-in-law. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery. Calling hours will be held at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home Friday, March 2, 2018, from 4 to 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to HospiceCare in the Berkshires. Donations may be sent to FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. To send remembrances to the family, visit http://www.finnertyandstevens.com.
