Bruce Laroche

In Loving Memory of Bruce Laroche

Bruce Laroche, 72, of Berlin, Connecticut, passed away on Monday, July 21, after a brief battle with cancer.

Bruce was a passionate outdoorsman who found joy in hiking, skiing, and biking. He cherished his hometown of Berlin and dedicated himself to civic service as a proud member of the Democratic Town Committee and longtime member of the Water Control Board.

During winter months, Bruce could be found carving through the slopes of New England as a devoted member of the Newington Ski Club, the Mountain Laurel Ski Club, and the Connecticut Ski Council. In warmer seasons, he was either cycling or as a 25-year member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, volunteering with trail maintenance or leading hikes—especially in his beloved White Mountains.

Professionally, Bruce worked for many years in the technical services industry. Mechanically gifted from a young age, he began his journey at Papale Garage at just 14, learning essential skills—oil changes, brake repairs, tire rotations, tune-ups—that would not only shape his life but help countless friends and family save time and money. He was generous with his talents, always ready to lend a hand or fix a contraption in need of tinkering.

Bruce's roots run deep in the Silver Lake neighborhood, where he spent his entire life surrounded by what he fondly considered his second family. Though the material things were few, the warmth of community and lifelong friendships made it an idyllic place to grow up—and that close-knit spirit continues today. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all his neighbors for their ongoing love and support.

Bruce is survived by his sister, Lynda Laroche Masselle and brother-in-law, Richard Masselle; his nephews, Joseph Masselle (Karina) and Timothy Masselle (Diana); his niece, Annmarie Meder (Nick); and the great-nieces and nephews who brought him joy: Grayson, Easton, and Collins Meder; Luca and Isabella Masselle; and Riley and Massimo Masselle.

He was predeceased by his father, Roland Laroche, his mother, Margaret Laroche, and his brothers, Peter Laroche and Timothy Laroche.

Special thanks go especially to Bill Nygren—Bruce's oldest and best friend— for his willingness to help in any way he could.

Deep appreciation goes to the staff at West Hartford Health and Rehabilitation for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Bruce during his final weeks.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Erickson-Hansen  Funeral Home of Berlin, 111 Chamberlain Highway, Kensington, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 461 Alling Street, Berlin, CT.  Burial will follow at Maple Cemetery, 1165 Worthington Ridge, Berlin, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Bruce's name to the Appalachian Mountain Club, 10 City Square, Boston, MA 02129 or via their website: https://www.outdoors.org/donate/tribute-gifts.