Francis J. LaRochelle

ENGLEWOOD, FL. - Francis J. LaRochelle, 84, of Englewood, Florida, died July 6th in Florida after a lengthy illness. He was born in Winchendon on July 12, 1925, the son of the late Louis LaRochelle Jr and Pearl (DeLong) LaRochelle and had lived in Springfield, MA. before moving to Florida 20 years ago. Francis was a heavy equipment operator for various companies before his retirement. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War Two, serving on the USS Omaha and USS Implicit in the African Middle Eastern Theatre. He was awarded the World War Two Victory Medal, the European Middle Eastern Theatre Medal with one Bronze Star, the American Theatre Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Medal. Francis was a life member and Past Commander of the Eugene M. Connor Post 193 American Legion of Winchendon. He was also a member of 40 & 8. He was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous for over 40 years and served as a counselor for many years. Francis is survived by a sister, Viola F. Theroux of Sarasota, FL, a half brother Lawrence LaRochelle of Fitchburg, MA, a nephew, a niece and several cousins in Winchendon. A Military Funeral Service will be held Friday, July 30th at 10 A.M. in the Chapel at the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon. Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon is directing local arrangements. www.stone-ladeau.com