Obituary for Theodore A. Rokita, DDS

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Ted was a kind, hardworking man whose life was defined by his unwavering dedication to his family, his patients, and his community.

It is with deep sadness and immense gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Dr. Theodore Andrew Rokita, DDS, who entered eternal life on July 29, 2026.

A lifelong Hoosier, Ted was born on September 7, 1942, to Theodore C. Rokita and Frances (Michna) Rokita. He was a graduate of Bishop Noll, where he played football and ran track earning several records; Wabash College, where he continued to run track and became a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity; and Indiana University School of Dentistry.

From his humble beginnings working at a dental clinic in South Chicago to the start of his private practice in Munster, Ted was passionate about his profession and pioneered the Dental Services program at Community Hospital, allowing licensed dentists access to the hospital setting and resources.

Ted was a kind, hardworking man whose life was defined by his unwavering dedication to his family, his patients, and his community. Known lovingly as “Doc” by many, he devoted more than 50 years to caring for generations of patients. His steady hands, compassionate heart, and commitment to excellence earned the respect of everyone who walked through his office doors. He was more than a dentist; he was a trusted friend and a reassuring presence.

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He leaves behind a legacy not only through his successful practice, but also through the countless lives he touched with his care, kindness, and character.

Beyond his practice, Ted used his talents to serve others. Over the years, he volunteered his services in nursing homes helping those in need maintain their dignity by providing dentures and general dental exams. He also served for many years on the Indiana State Dental Board, where his leadership and expertise distinguished him within the profession. The Commission on Dental Competency Assessments–Western Regional Examining Board (CDCA-WREB) later selected him to travel throughout the Midwest as an examiner, helping uphold the highest standards of dental competency. His dedication to the profession and to the people of Indiana was recognized with one of the state's highest civilian honors, the Sagamore of the Wabash.

Never one to stop serving others, he later joined the traveling election board, visiting care facilities throughout Northwest Indiana to help residents exercise their right to vote.

Although he always said, “I am going to work until I die”, his plans were cut short by the impact of Covid-19 on his practice, and he retired in 2021.

He found his greatest joy in the people he loved and took pride in the lives and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Ted cherished the simple blessings of life. He loved lake time in Monticello, enjoyed a good ball game or Fox News, and he never missed an election. He leaves behind a legacy not only through his successful practice, but also through the countless lives he touched with his care, kindness, and character.

He is survived by his wife Reggie, his children Todd (Kathy) Rokita, Richard Rokita, Regan (Colin) Bonderman and his four grandchildren, Teddy Rokita, Ryan Rokita, Quinn Bonderman and Elliott Bonderman.

Though he will be profoundly missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the many patients whose lives he impacted.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Angelman Syndrome Foundation. Although services were private, the Rokita family is grateful for the outpouring of support and the memories of Ted that continue to be shared.