Joseph E. E. Larouche
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Joseph (Joe) Edward Ernest Larouche, 76, passed away peacefully with his wife of 53 years by his side on Tuesday, February 2, 2021. He had battled several illnesses over a long period of time and is finally at peace. Joe was born in Northampton, MA on October 1, 1944, the son Marguerite (Delorme) and Ernest Larouche. Along with his siblings, he was raised and attended schools in Easthampton, MA. In 1962, Joe met his best friend and the love of his life Rosemarie Hmieleski. They were married on May 6, 1967 and moved to Northampton where they raised two children.
Throughout his life, Joe held many jobs. As a young man he worked for Paragon Rubber, Rubber Thread, and M & L Plastics all located in Easthampton, Spaulding Sports in Chicopee, and Milton Bradley in East Longmeadow. He worked as a dietary aide at the VA Medical Center in Leeds for 23 years. Following his retirement, Joe worked as a crossing guard in Northampton for 17 years. His years at Jackson Street School left him with lasting memories and lifelong friendships.
Joe was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. One of his many joys was teaching his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews how to fish. He also enjoyed bowling and playing horseshoes and was a member of several different leagues. Joe was an accomplished woodworker who enjoyed selling his wares at various craft shows. Those who knew Joe would often describe him as larger than life and charismatic. He made lifelong friends very easily and never forgot a face or a name.
Besides his wife, Rosemarie (Hmieleski) of Northampton. Joe also leaves his children Teresa (Larouche) Toner of Florence and Peter Larouche and his wife Diana (Spink) of Northampton. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Caleb, Victoria, Patrick and, Julia Toner, and Chloe and Emma Larouche along with one great-grandchild. Joe also leaves his brother and sister-in-law Donald and Linda Larouche of Easthampton, sister-in-law Gloria (Hmieleski) and her husband Edward Boyer of Easthampton, brother-in-law Edward Hmieleski and his wife Carin (Downs) of San Jose, CA, dear friends Patricia and Donald Bruno of Keller, Texas and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and co-workers.
O'Brien Funeral Home in Easthampton has been entrusted with Joe's care. There will be no calling hours or service at this time. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to Cooley Dickinson VNA and Hospice 168 Industrial Dr, Northampton, MA 01060.