Charles E. "Charlie" Rockey

Charles (Charlie) E. Rockey, 74, of Millheim, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026. Born June 4, 1951, he was the son of the late William R. Rockey and Faye L. (Rossman) Swartz.

Charlie was a proud United States Marine veteran. He proudly served as a Lance Corporal and carried the values of honor, hard work, and loyalty with him throughout his life. He was employed by Cerro Metal for many years, where he built not only a career but lasting friendships.

Above all, Charlie was a family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen (Bonchack) Rockey, his two cats, Belle and Miss Macy; his children, Crystal (Forrest) Wenrick, Cheri (Bryan) Casher, and Clair (Michelle) Rockey; six grandchildren, Mikayla, Makenzie (Eric), Madison (Ivan), Rilee, Colton, and Kelsi; two step-grandchildren, Hadley and Bryanna; two great-grandchildren, Kaison and Romy; seven step-great-grandchildren; five brothers, Ronald (Connie), Robert (Leanna), Allen (Tracy), Carl (Marcie), and Mac (Judy); four sisters, Linda Boonie, Peg (Tuff) Wert, Joy (Joseph) Moodler, and Billie Jo (Timothy) Albright; a step mother, Connie Noll; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Larry Swartz, his sisters, Connie Rockey and Denise Besecker and a nephew, Shawn Rockey.

Charlie found his greatest joys spending time with family, in sitting on his front porch “up Texas” waving to neighbors, keeping a watchful eye on the children at the bus stop, spending summers at Knoebels, and talking about the price of gas or oil. An avid hunter and fisherman, he took pride in passing his love of the outdoors on to the next generation.
He will be remembered for his steady presence, his warm wave, his quiet strength, and the deep, unwavering love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

Family will be receiving friends from 11:00 am until 12:30 pm at the American Legion Keystone Post #444 in Millheim on Saturday, February 28, 2026.  The Celebration of Life service will follow at 12:30 pm with Pastors Mike Covalt and Dan Schreckengast officiating.  Military honors will follow the service.  After the service a small luncheon will be served.  

His wishes were for his body to be donated to The University of Pittsburgh and no viewing will be held. In lieu of flowers, please make any memorial contributions to the Veterans group of your choice in his honor.
 

“It’s ok Lance Corporal Rockey, we will take it from here”. Semper Fi.

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