Steven Michael Roach

Steven Michael Roach, 63, of Merced, California, passed away on May 2, 2025, in Merced, California.

Steve was born in Quantico, Virginia, but moved soon after and primarily lived and raised in Enon, Ohio. Steve graduated from Greenon High School with honors in 1979. During this time Steve began his lifelong love of cycling, participating in several long distance rides including the Ragbrai road rally. A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Steve earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Ohio University, and went on to complete both his Master’s and Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Wyoming in Laramie. Steve's dissertation project led him to work at the NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field, CA, where he contributed to projects involving Cassini's mission to image the rings of Saturn. During this time he also competed in the national rifle shooting team, aiming to qualify for the Olympics. He also learned how to technically rock climb at the infamous Vedauwoo climbing area, a passion that stayed with him the rest of his life. After completing graduate school Steve dedicated much of his life to teaching and mentoring others, holding academic positions at Adams College in Alamosa, Colorado and the University of Texas, El Paso. As an educator, he received the Chancellor’s Council Award for Teaching at UTEP for his innovative and creative ways of teaching inspiring young software engineers, as well as being the co-lead on the national ABET committee for software engineering programs across the country. His career later led him to be a staff scientist/contractor for NASA at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. 

Steve was known not only for his intellect but also for his adventurous spirit. He was an avid cyclist and mountaineer who cherished the natural world and the thrill of discovery—both in the classroom and on the trail. Both his colleagues and students would comment on how challenging his courses in software engineering were, but the end result would always be satisfying and rewarding. Steve's wit and sarcasm went beyond the classroom, and friends and colleagues always respected his perspective not just on how to solve the most difficult problems, but also life in general. He was an amazing listener, which allowed others to trust and be open with him on any level, and at any time. 

He is survived by his loving partner, Michele "Nish" Nishiguchi; his father, Colin Roach of Enon, Ohio; and his sisters, JoAnn Ford (brother in law Robert, nephews Robert, Jay and niece Kathryn) of Enon, Ohio, and MaryBeth Schmotzer (niece Claire and nephew John) of Danville, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma "Teri" Roach.

Steven will be remembered as a brilliant scientist, devoted teacher, partner in crime, generous mentor, and a kind, adventurous soul. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched through his work and his warmth.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a mountain conservation organization or science education charity of your choice in Steven’s memory. His celebration of life will be held in Merced, CA on August 9th.