AUGUSTA — Allan B. “Barney” Roach, 89, of Chelsea, died Tuesday, July 9, at Augusta Rehabilitation and Nursing Care following a long illness.
He was born in New Brunswick, Canada, April 7, 1924, a son of the late Joseph E. and Charlotte H. (Whalen) Roach. Mr. Roach was a graduate of Stephens High School in Rumford, Class of 1943, and had attended Ryder College and the New York Institute of Photography.
He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during both World War II and the Korean War. He served in a field hospital with the 463 AAA Medical Detachment.
Barney was a photographer for the Kennebec Journal for 32 years. He previously worked for a few years with the Rumford Falls Times.
Mr. Roach was a communicant of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church and was a member of the American Legion for 65 years, a life member of the VFW Post 887, a life member of the Augusta Elks Lodge 964 for 63 years, where he was past Exalted Ruler, served as Secretary for 25 years and was made Elk of the Year and Officer of the Year.
He also belonged to the National Press Photographers Association, Maine Press Association and was part of Homeless Veteran’s Work Group at the VA Hospital at Togus.
Barney is survived by his son, David B. Roach and his wife, Karina, of Chelsea; his daughter, Maryalyne McKinley Roach of Maine; four grandchildren, David and Sandra Buzzell and Gage and Savannah Patton; a brother, Edward Roach of Dixfield; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Helen L. (Wright) Roach.
Condolences, photos and memories may be shared at www.plummerfh.com.
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