William F. Roarke

Troy-William Francis "Bud" Roarke, 81, of Troy N.Y passed away three minutes before midnight on December 31, 2021 following a long and brave battle with Atypical Parkinson's disease. He was surrounded by his loving wife and two daughters in the home that he built. Bud was born to George Emmett and Helen (Johnson) Roarke in Troy, NY on July 30, 1940. He attended St. Augustine's

Elementary and graduated from Lansingburgh High School in 1959. After school, he began working as a surveyor's assistant before proudly serving in the United States Army and Army Reserves from 1963-1969. After his service, he joined AT&T (now Verizon) where he worked for 32 years until his retirement in 2001.

In October 1975, Bud wed the love of his life, Barbara (Harrington) Roarke. The following year, he built the home in which they welcomed and raised their two daughters and lived happily for the rest of his life.
Bud was a lifelong learner and avid reader who was happiest outdoors, farming, hunting, and spending Saturday nights at Lebanon Valley Speedway. He was actively involved in the Veterans of Lansingburgh and the Early Engine Club of Rensselaer County. However, the greatest joy in Bud's life undoubtedly came from the time he spent with his family and friends.

Bud is survived by his wife Barbara, daughters Eileen Marie Roarke (Sharmil Modi) and Christina Lynn Roarke (James L. Derby), grandchildren Everett James Roarke-Derby, Willa Mae Potter, and Neela Roarke Modi, siblings Paul Roarke and Deborah Hengsterman, and seven nephews and nieces.

Calling hours for Bud will take place on Thursday, January 6th from 4:00-7:00pm at New Comer Funeral Home (181 Troy Schenectady Road in Watervliet NY, 12189) followed by a service at 7:00pm. Masks are required in the funeral home. He will be buried on Friday, January 7th at 10:30am at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. For those interested in joining the procession please arrive at the New Comer Funeral Home no later than 9:15am for departure at 9:30am.

To leave a special message for the family online please visit NewComerAlbany.com