J.T. "John" Rocka, Jr.
October 29,1944 – September 4,2025

J.T. "John" Rocka, Jr., 80, of Denison, Texas, entered eternal rest on the evening of September 4, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his devoted family.

Born in Houston, Texas, John spent his formative years in Rose Bud, Arkansas, where he graduated high school and distinguished himself as a gifted athlete, earning numerous awards in both football and basketball. His competitive spirit and drive on the field foreshadowed the tenacity with which he would later live his life.

A natural entrepreneur and consummate salesman, John built a remarkable career across a wide range of ventures. He founded and led companies in steel fabrication and real estate development, ultimately constructing more than 40 industrial buildings in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Among his most ambitious undertakings was Wild West Sport, a mixed-use development that combined a restaurant, rodeo arena, and golf range in Stephenville, Texas. Later, he managed multimillion-dollar industrial installations and projects, and even in his later years, he continued to work tirelessly in sales, most recently in the roofing industry. John never truly retired, as his energy and determination would not allow it.

John's life was also a testament to resilience. A walking medical miracle, he survived more than 35 surgeries, each time recovering with unwavering optimism, deep faith, and an indomitable will to persevere. His courage and determination inspired all who knew him. Just months before his passing, he joyfully celebrated his 80th birthday on October 29, 2024, in Pottsboro, Texas, with a large gathering of family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, J.T. Rocka and Annie Mae Rocka, his best friend, Uncle Buddy, his dearly beloved Grandma, Rosa Clamon, and his nephew Byran Baker, among others. He is survived by his wife, Mary Pate Rocka; his siblings, Patsy Andrews, Opal Barker (Larry), and Tommy Rocka (Sharla); his children, Robbye Schroeder Kirkpatrick (Shawn) and Chris Weir (Beth); his step-children, Brad Pate (Michele) and Cassie Williams; and seven grandchildren, Peter Weir Page (22), Melody Schroeder (18), Jason Schroeder (17), Michaela Schroeder (15), Savannah Pate (27), Jase Williams (9), and Asher Williams (16). He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members who cherished his storytelling, humor, and delicious bar-b-que.

A man of faith and fellowship, John was a member of The Refuge Church in Denison, Texas. His legacy will be remembered in the lives of the family and friends who love him.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, September 9, at The Refuge Church in Denison, Texas at 2:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 29 at Sidon Cemetery in Sidon, Arkansas at 2:00 p.m.