Dr. Samuel R. Rockey – Obituary
He was born in Lock Haven on November 13, 1942 to Samuel C. Rockey and Dorothy M. (Probst) Rockey. After living in Chicago for nine years, his family returned to Lock Haven in 1954. He participated in football and track and graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1960. Following a year working in industry, Dr. Rockey enrolled at Lock Haven State College, participating in wrestling, football, and track, and graduating in 1965 with a degree in biology and general science. Upon graduation, Dr. Rockey accepted a teaching position at Boyertown High School where he started their wrestling program, and assisted with the football and track teams. He returned to the area a year later to teach at Bucktail High School where he again started a wrestling program and assisted with football. After two years of teaching, he enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, graduating in 1971 and returning to Lock Haven to practice. He was active in organized dentistry belonging to the American Dental Society and serving many terms in leadership positions in the Sixth District and Lycoming-Clinton Dental Societies. He belonged to, and strongly supported, many area service organizations including the Jersey Shore Elks and Moose Lodges and the Lock Haven Sons of Italy and Eagles Lodge, again serving in several positions. He was an avid hunter and fly-fisherman and greatly enjoyed travelling the country with friends and family to pursue those interests. He retired from practice in early 2015.
Dr. Rockey married the former Karen Robins on November 26, 1966. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, his beloved children and grandchildren, and sister .His son, Dr. David S. Rockey (Robin Corey) and their children Samuel C. and Olivia G. reside in Lock Haven. His daughter, Dana E. Webber (Todd) and their children Toria E. and Zeyla R. Webber, reside in State College. His sister, Carol A. Brown (Judge Carson V.) resides in Lock Haven. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Harry.
Visitation will be held at Yost-Gedon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, LLC. 121 West Main Street, Lock Haven, PA from 6-8 p.m., Friday, December 18. Funeral services will be held at the same location Saturday, December 19, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at the Swissdale Cemetery. A gathering will be held afterward at the Durrwachter Conference Center at Lock Haven University from 12-3:30 p.m.
Flowers are greatly appreciated, but those who would rather make a contribution can do so to the Gatehouse Hospice at the Divine Providence Hospital, 1100 Grampian Blvd Williamsport, PA. 17701 Online thoughts and memories can be made at www.yost-gedonfuneralhome.com
