Henry J. Roller passed away on November 11, 2010, at home, just as he always wanted. In a life lived to the fullest, Henry held few things as close to his heart as family, good friends and his home, a place for good times.
Henry’s life read like a Hollywood script, filled with drama and adventure. A self-made man who always insisted on doing things “his way”, Henry’s lust for life was second to none. Born on August 20, 1924 and raised in the streets of New York City, “Henie” vowed at an early age to live his life on his terms. With little more than the suit on his back and an imagination filled with wonder, he drove off to California in his car to see what life had in store for him there. This was a trend he would repeat time and time again throughout his life. He returned to New York four years later as a new man.
He met and married Margaret Tiernan, moved to the Bronx and shortly after began his career with the New York City Department of Sanitation, rising to the ranks of Borough Supervisor. Henie and Margie had three children, Peggy, Judy and John. It was during his years in the Bronx that he instilled his love for travel into his family, never once failing to take them on an annual vacation somewhere he thought would be fun. It was also during this time that he opened and ran a successful neighborhood candy store, always a source of great memories for himself and his family for years to come.
His family having grown, Henry again picked up and left for life’s next adventure. Settling in Big Tree Shores, in South Daytona he once again established himself as a man people loved to call friend. During these years, Henry developed his next great passion, woodworking, always making trinkets and momentos for friends and family. Continuing to work and travel, Henry never let the physical setbacks of his life slow him down. With his door always open, Henry’s final years were spent laughing with good friends and family over countless cold beers, solving the world’s problems and re-telling tales of a life well lived. Henry is survived by his wife, three children, two son in laws, one daughter in law, twelve grandchildren, one great grandson and his angel on earth, Linda.
While Henry will be missed, he would not want to be mourned. Remember what he would tell each of us…”Have a great day, no matter what you do !”
A private life celebration will be held at a later date.
So sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He was a nice man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time.
With deepest sympathy
Debbie, Dave, Linda and Lisa