Obituary of Julius Roark

JULIUS ROARK "Jul" Age 70, at rest Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center with his family by his side. Julius served in the U.S. Navy for 6 years on the U.S.S. Guadalcanal Aircraft Carrier. He served during the Cuban Missile Crisis 1962. In 1966 U.S.S. Guadalcanal rescued astronauts John Young and Michael Collins from the Gemini X Mission. He worked at the Joliet Arsenal and U.S. Steel. He enjoyed landscaping and loved going to the casino and spending time with his family. He mostly loved his precious time with his grandchildren. He was an active member of St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church where he served as an usher. Julius helped anyone, he was a very selfless and loving man. Survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Mary Ann (nee Wilson); two sons, Chad Roark and Damon Roark; two grandchildren, Jordan and Jillian; two brothers, Carlos and Cody Roark; four sisters, Geneva Burkhardt, Marlene Osborne, Genelle Verklan and Wanda Brownlee; many nieces and nephews survive. Preceded in death by his parents, Cody and Martha Roark; four brothers, Douglas, Lucas, Jarvis and Onas and his sister, Genette. A special Thank You to the Dr.'s and nurses in the CICU, 4th floor and Cardiac unit at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center. A Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, June 14, 2016, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church, 706 N. Broadway, Joliet, IL 60435. Memorial Gathering 9:30 a.m. until the time of mass. As it was his wish, cremation rites have been accorded. Military Honors under the auspices of the United States Navy. In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials to American Heart Association or Masses appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Fred C. Dames Funeral Home. Information 815-741-5500.