Roy was not only an excellent Captain and fisherman but also my close friend and like family to me. I will miss him always but have thousands of fond and exciting memories.
– David Lipman, Founder of The Forum
On December 7th, Pearl Harbor Day, family and close friends gathered at sea to honor and celebrate the life of Roy E. Rockoff in a way that reflected who he truly was — free-spirited, deeply loved, and forever connected to the ocean.
Roy’s ashes were spread over one of his favorite sailfishing spots just off Juno Beach, along the Juno Ridge, a place that held meaning, peace, and countless memories for him. The calm water and open horizon served as a fitting final resting place, returning Roy to the environment he loved most.
In a deeply personal and moving moment captured on video, Roy’s oldest son, Adam, released his father’s ashes into the sea. Surrounded by family and friends aboard the boat, the moment was quiet, reverent, and filled with love — a son honoring his father, and a family honoring a life well lived.
Adding to the meaning of the day, leis and flowers were sent from Hawaii by one of Roy’s closest childhood friends. Though separated by distance, the bond of friendship remained strong, symbolizing how Roy’s relationships endured across time and miles.
A powerful tribute to Roy’s legacy was also created by his youngest son, Alex, a tattoo artist, who painted a striking portrait of his father. The artwork captures Roy’s warmth, strength, and unmistakable smile — a visual reminder that his presence continues to live on through his family and the love he shared.
This celebration was not a goodbye, but a remembrance — of kindness freely given, of unwavering strength, and of a heart that was always open to others. Though Roy is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains present in the stories told, the ocean he loved, and the lives he touched.
His love stays with us always.
| Sailfish | Blue Marlin | White Marlin | Giant Bluefin Tuna |
|---|---|---|---|
| 837 | 38 | 13 | 4* |
| Record Numbers Over Career | Trophy Catches | Rare Captures | Legendary Battles |
*3 Caught with Wendell Black at the helm, Roy’s protégé
| Year/Event | Result |
|---|---|
| Aug 1978 | Barlivento Tournament, Cuba – 2 Blue Marlin |
| Jan 1984 | Buccaneer Sailfish – Won With 10 Sailfish |
| Apr 1984 | Walkers Cay Blue Marlin – 333 Lbs. “Money Fish” |
| Jun 1984 | Arthur Smith Sailfish Tournament – 2nd Place |
| Jan 1985 | IBL Sailfish Tournament – 2nd Place (24 Sailfish) |
| May 1985 | Walkers Cay Blue Marlin Tournament – 226 Lbs. “Money Fish” |
| Jan 1989 | Buccaneer Sailfish Tournament – Won With 14 Sailfish |
| Apr 1990 | Walkers Cay Blue Marlin Tournament – 340 Lbs., 97” Missed Winning By 1” and Ended In 2nd Place |
| Jan 1991 | Buccaneer Sailfish Tournament – 3rd Place Team (17 Fish) |
| Jan 1996 | Sailfish Marina Tournament – 3rd Place |
