Gerard A. Laroche

He was born in Lewiston, July 9, 1917 the son of Alfred and Georgianna Therrien Laroche. Gerry was educated in Lewiston schools and served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II where he was the recipient of the Bronze Star for bravery.

He was married April 19, 1947 to Ida Levasseur who predeceased him March 29, 1981. On September 30, 1983 he married Florence Duval. Gerry was employed at the Continental Mill, Raytheon and retired in 1985 after 20 years at Pioneer Plastics.

He was a longtime member of Holy Cross Church and the American Legion Post # 22. He was a quiet, humble man who enjoyed laughing and family gatherings. He also enjoyed his daily walks. He is survived by his wife, Florence of Lewiston; 2 daughters, Jeanne Lachance and husband Andy and Rachel Veilleux and husband Eugene, Jr.; a son, Gerard J. Laroche and wife Sue all of Lewiston; 7 grandchildren, SMSGT Gerald Tripp, Jr. and wife Edina of Germany, Ryan Tripp and wife Cindy of Auburn, Alan Tripp and wife Molly of Lewiston, Karen Smith and husband Andy of Newburyport, Mass., Eugene "Geno" Veilleux, III and girl friend Kassidy McManus of Lewiston, Shelley Annaldo and husband Dave of North Providence, R.I. and Danny Laroche and girl friend Jillian Doner of Salt Lake City, Utah; 7 great grandchildren, Zachary, Eva, Nolan and Dylan Tripp, Mirabelle and Chloe Smith, Briana Annaldo and awaiting twins in April; a brother, Lucien Laroche of Lewiston; and Florence's family. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Katie Laroche in 1984, a brother, Cyprien and 5 sisters, Florence, Germaine, Cecile, Dora and Marcienne. Gerry's family extends special thanks to all the caregivers from Central Maine Medical Center, D'Youville Pavilion rehab and Beacon Hospice. You are invited to share your condolences and fond memories with the Laroche family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com

Visitations at the funeral home Thursday from 2-4, 7-9 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday 11:00 AM at Holy Cross Church. Committal with military honors to follow at St. Peter's Cemetery. A service of The Fortin Group Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services, 70 Horton St. Lewiston 784-4584