Pawtucket – Arthur “Artie” R. Laroche, 86, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Elphege and Lucille (Loubier) Laroche. Art was a proud resident of Pawtucket for most of his life.
Art is lovingly remembered by his wife, Lillinoe E. (Bungo) Laroche of sixty-five wonderful years, and their children, Arlene Bertrand and her husband, James, Brenda Laroche and her late husband, Jesse Baker, Denise Choquet and her partner, Henry Gardner, Jr., and Francine Laroche; three siblings, Elizabeth D’Entremont, Larry Laroche and Cecile Bouthillier. He leaves behind a legacy carried forward by nineteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren of whom he spoke of often and loved dearly. He also leaves several nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Craig Laroche and Eric Laroche; brother of the late Claire Connolly and Gerald Laroche; grandfather of the late Corey Choquet and Tyler Gardner and the great-grandfather of the late Ryan Laroche.
Art was a proud United States Air Force veteran. He met his wife, Lilly in the United States Air Force where they both embodied a deep sense of duty.
After given many opportunities by the Fain family, Art dedicated thirty-nine years to Teknor Apex until retiring in 1998. His unwavering work ethic and steadfast presence made a lasting impact on his colleagues.
After retiring, Art found great joy in the simple rhythms of life. A skilled craftsman, he created many beautiful pieces which he gifted with love to his friends and family. He loved games of Poker and Hi Lo Jack, often surrounded by laughter with friends and family. The bright lights of Las Vegas beckoned him time and again, as did frequent visits to Foxwoods Casino. At home, moments spent rocking gently on the patio brought him quiet contentment.
Services with Military Honors will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4 pm until 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904 or online at:
www.hopehealthco.org
would be appreciated. For online condolences or to share memories please visit:
www.trippfuneralhome.com
Arthur, Art, Artie, Mr. Laroche, Gramps, will be deeply missed and fondly remembered as he made an impact on all of those whom he had crossed paths. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.