Obituary of Joseph F. LaRocque

North Creek: Joseph Florian LaRocque, 87, of Old River Road, passed away peacefully Sunday, December 28, 2014, at his home, among family, friends, and his wife of 60 years, Suzanne. Born July 17, 1927 in Piercefield, he was the son of the late Victor and Marie (Guertin) LaRocque. Joseph served his country as a Seaman First Class in the United States Navy. Upon his honorable discharge in July 1946 he went on to receive his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education in 1951 from Springfield College, then his Master's Degree in Science from State University of New York in 1952. He met and married Suzanne Elizabeth B. Buchler on June 26, 1954. He then became employed as a guidance counselor at Johnsburg Central School, retiring after 30 years of faithful service. Joseph continued his education, pursuing his PhD at Columbia University. He was an active member within his community, serving on various Boards, including Warren County Planning, Hudson Headwater Health Network, and Adirondack Tri-County Nursing Home; he also served as councilman for the Town of Chester. During his tenure as a Guidance Director in Warren County, he was also President of the New York State Guidance Association. Joseph was best known for his talents as a gardener, especially his heirloom blueberries, and as an avid competitive crib player, and his years of service in the Ski Patrol at Gore Mountain. He was a dedicated and an active communicant of St. James Catholic Church, in North Creek. In addition to his parents, Joseph was predeceased by his two sons, Michael Joseph and Michael Stephen, a sister, Rejean Schyberg, and beloved nephew, Ronald Hinton. Survivors include his beloved wife, Suzanne LaRocque; a sister, Rena Chambers; Marc and April Hinton, Michael and Rose-Marie Ordway, John and Patricia McAlonen; numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren, and Miss Molly. A memorial service to celebrate Joseph's life will be conducted in the spring at a time to be announced. Joseph’s family would like to extend a special thanks to High Peaks Hospice of Mineville, Fort Hudson Health Aides Loretta Galusha and Casey Laflure, Sue Wilkes from Greater Adirondack Health Aides, and Jill and Josh McCarroll, all of whom were devoted and dedicated to him throughout the past year, as well as Dr. Daniel Way, whom the family is eternally grateful for his outstanding medical care, guidance, and support. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations in Joseph’s memory to High Peaks Hospice, 79 Glenwood Avenue, 2nd Floor, Queensbury, NY 12804. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook and condolences.