The last name Roarke is of Irish origin and is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name Ó Ruairc, which means "red-haired". The name is most common in County Leitrim in Ireland, but is also found in other parts of the country. The Roarke family is one of the oldest and most distinguished families in Ireland and can trace its lineage back to the 10th century. The family has produced many famous people, including politicians, soldiers, and artists. The most famous member of the Roarke family is probably St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.