LEWISTON — Gerard A. Laroche, 94 of Lewiston passed away peacefully Monday, Oct. 24, at his home surrounded by his family.

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 Sept. 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; two daughters, Jeanne Lachance and husband, Andy and Rachel Veilleux and husband, Eugene Jr., a son, Gerard J. Laroche and wife, Sue, all of Lewiston; seven grandchildren, Senior Master Sgt. 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; seven 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 brother, Cyprien; five sisters, Florence, Germaine, Cecile, Dora and Marcienne; and a granddaughter, Katie Laroche in 1984.

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.