a Rotary Tribute
A dedicated leader, community pillar, friend, and proud member of the Rotary Club of Squamish, Lynda Rocha lived a life that truly exemplified the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self."
Lynda was a committed member of Rotary from the age of 26 when in 1991, she joined the Kitimat club as one of the first female Rotarians. She served as Kitimat Club President and as Secretary 4 times during her years there, before joining Squamish Rotary in 2016. She immediately established herself as a valued contributor to her new club, and served in nearly all key roles, including President (2022-23) and as Secretary (2023 to present). But Lynda didn’t need a formal position to get involved. It seems that whenever there was a job to do, Lynda would be there.
Lynda also offered her tireless energy to Rotary District programs, with a particular focus on Youth. She served several years on the District Youth Committee as Chair of the District RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) and District Interact committees.
She often showed up at club lunches lit up with enthusiasm and inspiration after spending a weekend with a group of fully engaged teenagers at a youth camp program. Nothing made her happier than seeing a group of young people sharing their hopes and dreams for a better world, and having fun doing it in a supportive, inclusive environment.
The most recent example of Lynda’s passion for youth is her efforts to spearhead a new community program, “Adventures in First Responding.” This one-day event provided an opportunity for Howe Sound Secondary School students to learn about careers in policing, fire rescue, and the ambulance service. Engaging the school board, the RCMP, Vancouver Police, Squamish Fire Rescue, and Emergency Health Services, this hands-on program gave the 14 local participants great exposure to the challenges and excitement of working in these important careers. The event occurred 3 days after Lynda’s death – a testament to her exceptional organizational skills that everyone involved knew exactly what was expected of them and were able to execute a great program without her there.
One of Lynda’s professional occupations was Event Planner, and she brought her expertise and creative flair to all the club’s special events and meetings. She covered every detail, from communicating event information to club members and guests, to creating beautiful decorations, and ensuring there was plenty of great food and a fun program.
She was also known for her random acts of kindness, where a rustling sound at your door might reveal a wreath or flower arrangement.
Not only did Lynda give generously of her time and talents, but she was also a major contributor to the Rotary Foundation. She participated as both a host and as a guest in our club’s Foundation Dinner Program. She organized Christmas wreath-making workshops, sharing her vast inventory of crafting supplies in exchange for a donation to the Foundation. With her “think outside the box” mentality, she was the inspiration behind a very successful annual fundraiser, “Duck in a Truck.” Through her generosity to the charity she loved, she was a Paul Harris Fellow +5 and made both of her children Paul Harris Fellows +2.
Lynda leaves behind a Rotary legacy that will continue to inspire her Rotary family and friends for many years to come. If you wish to express your sympathy, please donate to The Rotary Foundation in memory of Lynda Rocha. You can also honour her memory by being the best you can be, putting Service Above Self in the way you live your life.