Walter "Rocky" Henry Roch von Rochsburg

Walter "Rocky" H. Roch von Rochsburg, age 88, of Traverse City, Michigan, formerly of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026.

Rocky was born on August 5, 1937, in Toledo, Ohio, to Walter and Fern Roch von Rochsburg.

He attended The Ohio State University, where he was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, played on the university golf team, and earned his degree in Landscape Architecture. Following graduation, he proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Army, stationed at Fort Ord, California.

After his military service, Rocky began his career with the Peoria Park District in Peoria, Illinois. He later moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he became a partner with Scruggs and Hammond Landscape Architects. Throughout his distinguished career, he helped shape communities through thoughtful planning and design while mentoring future professionals as an instructor at The Ohio State University.

Rocky was deeply committed to public service and his profession. He served as President of the Ohio Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, was elected as a Perry Township Councilman, and later became an active member of the Benzie County Planning Commission after moving to northern Michigan.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rocky found his greatest joy in spending time with family. He loved golfing, caring for his yard, traveling, reading, building LEGO creations, and making cherished memories with his grandchildren. His curiosity, creativity, and quiet sense of humor will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Rocky was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Janet, and his son, Eric.

He is survived by his son, Walter "Skip" Roch von Rochsburg and his wife, Trenda; daughter-in-law, Angie Roch von Rochsburg; granddaughters, Jess Eubank and her husband, Mike, Jade Roch von Rochsburg and her partner, Dan Trionfera, and Leland Roch von Rochsburg; as well as his sister and brother-in-law, Melinda and Tom Woll.

The family will hold a private Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rocky's memory to Hospice of Michigan.