Monica Rose Roller, beloved sister, aunt and grand aunt, passed away on December 5, 2017 at the age of 92. Monica was born on June 2, 1925 to Rudolph and Anna (Parolik) Roller in Ellensburg, Washington. In 1930 she and her family moved to Tacoma. Monica attended Holy Rosary Catholic School before attending and graduating from St Leo’s High School in 1943. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Seattle University in 1947, completed a yearlong administrative dietetic internship at Mills College in 1948 and earned a Masters Degree in Institutional Administration from the University of Washington in 1955.
Monica’s career as an administrative dietician spanned some 34 years. Early on it entailed roles in hospital, university and school institutions including Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, the University of Wyoming and Tacoma General Hospital. During the second half of her career she was a Foodservice Instructor and Training Coordinator at the Clover Park Vocational Technical Institute. Monica was also an active participant in local and state dietetic associations holding elected office as President, Treasurer and Delegate as well as several appointed positions.
Monica loved to travel. Over her life time her adventurous spirit led her to travel extensively to all seven continents including Antarctica. She was also an avid bird watcher, gardener and active member of her church.
Monica will best be remembered for her devotion to family which led to her active participation in countless family events well into her 80’s. She attended baptisms, confirmations, high school and college graduations and weddings, often traveling great distances just to be there. Monica also strongly believed in the value of education. She, in conjunction with and memory of her sisters Mary and Rita provided financial assistance to her grand nephews and nieces towards pursuit of their educational and career aspirations beyond high school.
Monica is preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph and Anna, brothers John and Joseph and sisters Mary Roller and Rita Roller. She is survived by her sister in law, Janet Roller and a large group of nephews, nieces and grand nephews/nieces.
Services will be celebrated at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Lakewood on Tuesday, December 12, 2017. A Rosary will begin at 10:30am followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00am. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Tacoma. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-292-9565.

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