Bruce Laroche Service Award
Bruce Laroche epitomized a life of service and loyalty within every facet of his existence. We, the members of the CT Ski Council, were surprised and saddened upon learning that his health had taken a turn for the worse, and he passed away in July 2025. Bruce didn’t just “show up” at events. He contributed to the mission of every activity that he was part of. Thank you to those members of the Council who took the time to attend Bruce’s Celebration of Life events in July 2025.
Bruce had a visible and meaningful presence for over 30 years at all CT Ski Council events in his service, representing Newington Ski Club. He never served in the role of an Executive Officer, but his presence was clearly welcomed and respected. He shared his talent of photography with the council by photographing participants at our Kids’ Learn to Ski Days in the VT Mountains (I have some classic photos of that 5’9” Red-headed Raffle Ticket Seller when she was learning to ski at the age of 7 – thanks to Bruce). He (Bruce) assisted with materials and supplies to enrich our Public Relations Displays at Expos, and during our former CT On Snow Carnival weekends, he could be spotted alongside the race slope photographing the racers. He attended every Snow Ball (now Fall Gala) and Spring Picnic. Bruce was the first person in the Mountain Room for Monday Night Racing at Mount Southington…whether he was racing or not. He diligently reserved tables for Newington Ski Club and greeted those who entered the room, regardless of their Club affiliation.
Bruce was always among the first in loyal attendance at our monthly CSC Representative Meetings and honored the wait staff by ordering dinner and dining with the early attendees. He always delivered a voice of conscience and reason at the monthly Representative Meetings with regard to CT Ski Council Expenditures and monetary matters.
Bruce has departed from us; however, his presence, contributions, and loyalty should never be forgotten but epitomized. It is in that spirit that your CT Ski Council Executive Officers have chosen to honor the life and loyalty of Bruce with an annual award of service and loyalty to a council person in his honor and memory.
2026 Recipients
Nancy Nolan
Robert Dexter