Marie "Mimi" J. (Ouellette) Roach

Julie Marie Roach, “Mimi”, passed away peacefully Monday morning, May 19th at Caledonia Senior Living in North Riverside. Marie would have turned 98 years old in July.

Mimi was born on July 8th, 1927 in Chicago Illinois, daughter of the late Fred and Brigid (Fleming) Ouellette and sister of the late Patrick Ouellette. She graduated from nursing school at Oak Park Hospital and worked as a RN in the hospital and at a private doctor’s office for several years. 

In 1950, Mimi married the love of her life, John L. Roach and the two lived several years in Chicago, until eventually moving to River Forest where they raised 6 children. Mimi was heavily involved in St. Luke’s Church and Community. She regularly fund-raised for the parish and helped create a popular and successful area House Walk to benefit St. Luke’s School. Mimi served on several parish and school boards during those years as well.

Though she was a stay at home mom, Mimi didn’t stay home. She was in a bowling league for many years and she would say her abilities were “smooth”. Mimi and her husband John were both avid bridge players though Mimi got into duplicate bridge and never looked back. She became a silver life master and played regularly, including participating in tournaments into her early 90’s. Both Mimi and John also loved golf and played regularly.

Mimi was famous for her knowledge and love of astrology. She may not have known your name, but she knew your astrology sign as her children’s friends can attest to. Mimi was not above advising some to re-think their plans based on their signs, but always wished them well! She was also an historian who researched events past and current, creating dozens of journals over the years featuring fabulous facts and trivia.

Most important to Mimi were friends and family. She and John had a wonderful network of friends from various walks of life over the years but it was her family that made her happiest. Though Mimi lost her husband John in 1998, her daughters Monica and Maggie were her constant companions. Her daughter Claire and her son Paul were with her as often as possible. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her boundless joy.

Mimi was predeceased by her beloved sons Mark Roach, (Linda) and Mel Roach. Left to cherish her memory are her children Paul Roach, (Connie), Claire Metz (Peter), Monica Roach, Maggie Cimms, her 5 grandchildren, Michael Metz, (Leslie), Matthew Metz, (Sarah), Alexandra Silva, (Robbie), Joseph Metz, Julie Hillis, (Jerrad), her great grandchildren Lyons Metz and Charlotte Metz and her sister in law, Sister Ellen Roach (Aunt Agnes). 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home. The family will receive friends Friday, May 23rd from 4:00-8:00 pm at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, 7319 Madison Street, Forest Park. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am, Saturday, May 24th, 2025 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, River Forest with interment to follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.  Info. 708-366-2200 or www.ZimmermanHarnett.com.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities.

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