Marie Ann Roach, 68, of Chicago, passed away May 22, 2002 at Weiss Memorial Hospital of a massive heart attack. Marie was the eldest daughter of the late Helen, nee Gibbons, and Anthony Roach of County Mayo and Armitage Avenue in Chicago. Marie was loved by her sisters the late Patricia Ballauer, twins Eileen Carnahan and Kathleen; brothers John (Susan) Roach of Allentown, PA and Michael Roach of San Francisco, CA; she was loved by her four nieces and two nephews Christa Ballauer of Chicago, Susan and Michelle Roach of Philadelphia, PA and Maureen Roach of Allentown, PA, Joey Ballauer of Amboy, IL and Robert Carnahan of Scottsdale, AZ. Marie spent her life loving, teaching and promoting literature and the arts. In particular, she loved the theater, as evidenced by her long career directing Children’s Theater and Theater on the Lake productions for the Chicago Park District. Marie put her heart and soul into her work. She cast family members in her plays. Our brother John had the lead role in “Flowering Cherry” and “The Subject was Roses,” and our sister Kathleen acted in “The Diary of Anne Frank.” Marie’s final act at Theater on the Lake was the production of “Da” which she directed and starred in. The female lead had a car accident so Marie took her role. Of course she was splendid. Our beloved sister Marie touched and inspired many peoples lives. We will remember her as a bright shining star. May she rest in peace. Memorial Mass Wednesday, June 5 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Chapel, 690 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Open Hand Chicago, 3902 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60613. Interment private.
