Howard's obituary
Howard Wesley Rohrbach II, lovingly known as Ike, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, at Einstein Hospital in Philadelphia at the age of 58. Born on December 18, 1967, in York County, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Michael W. Rohrbach and Bonita R. Rohrbach and was named in honor of his paternal grandfather, carrying on the family name.
During his early childhood, he was cared for by his maternal grandparents, Gretna Myers Rotz and Edwin A. Rotz, and shared a close bond with his Nana. He later moved with his family to Delaware, where he spent his adolescence and graduated from Kent Vo-Tech High School in Woodside. He remained rooted in the state until his passing, building a life defined by generosity.
As a young man, Ike honored the wishes of his parents and enlisted in the United States Air Force, completing his service before beginning a long and dedicated career with the City of Dover.
By trade, Ike was a heavy-duty automotive mechanic, serving the municipality for over 20 years. Alongside this work, he owned and operated his own contracting business, offering his wide range of skills to anyone in need. A true jack of all trades, he handled everything from electrical work and plumbing to mechanical repairs. More importantly, he was always willing to help. Ike never turned away someone in distress and never hesitated to use his abilities to assist friends, neighbors, or strangers.
Ike had many interests and talents — as a photographer, artist, caregiver, and cook, which he referred to as being a “kitchen mechanic.” He had a great love for music, with tastes spanning classical, heavy metal, country, and electronic. A self-taught guitar player, music was always around him. He loved the open road, having been a biker from a young age, and treasured time spent outdoors. Fascinated by the weather, he often shared forecasts and observations and enjoyed CB radioing and connecting over the airwaves. Camping, kayaking, archery, shooting, and tinkering with technology were among his favorite pastimes.
While Ike loved many things, nothing truly meant more to him than his wife, Edna L. Rohrbach, whom he married on February 14, 1997. They shared 29 years of marriage and remained devoted to one another until his passing — best friends through thick and thin.
In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his two children, Nicolas A. Grigsby and Edna C. Perrusquia; his cherished sister, Gaile McLaughlin, her husband Dan McLaughlin, and his niece, Lauren McLaughlin; his sister-in-law, Virginia Pleasanton, and nephew, Kyle Pleasanton.
He also leaves behind many he chose as family, including Margaret and Kathy Seeger and Amy Lyons; and his many grandchildren: Snowy Feathers, Jeremiah Feathers, Khloe Feathers, Korra Feathers, Javon Seeger, Z’ana King, Jamal Parker, Mika Parker, Jaden Parker, and Jeremiah Parker, all of whom he loved dearly.
The family is planning a Remembrance of Life later this spring at Killens Pond State Park. If you would like to share a memory or wish to contact the family, please email: inmemoryofikerohrbach@gmail.c….
Ike was a steady presence, a man who showed love through action.
He will be deeply missed.