Brian Craig Roche, 34

Brian Craig Roche, 34, died at his residence in Whitefish, after his valiant battle with melanoma for almost three years.

He was born on Jan. 8, 1972, in La Mirada, Calif., the son of Mike and Karen (Coppedge) Roche. His father lived in various states during his military career. The family moved back to the Flathead Valley in 1984; this was a first time in the Flathead for both Brian and his sister, Diana. Brian played football and wrestled while going to Flathead High School and graduated in 1990.

He worked as a chef in both Portland and the Flathead Valley. Brian helped with the construction of the chairlifts at Big Mountain and Blacktail Mountain, also helped on the construction of the golf course at Iron Horse. He was involved in home construction until his illness.

Brian won numerous championships and placed at the National Snowboard Championships in 1998. He learned to surf while undergoing cancer treatment. He enjoyed his motorcycles, hunting, fishing, camping, cooking, skateboarding and above all, he loved his family, friends and dogs, Sirinuk, Kiska and Ammy.

He is survived by his parents, Mike and Karen Roche, a sister, Diana Harrison and husband, Scott, nephews, Jay and Drew Harrison, and niece, Sara Harrison, all of Kalispell; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

A memorial celebration for Brian Roche will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, July 17, at Brian's house, 5094 Whitefish Stage Road in Whitefish.

The family suggests that any donations be made to: Home Options, Hospice 175 Commons Loop, Suite 100 Kalispell, MT 59901; or charity of the donor's choice.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Brian's family.