Bruce Charles LaRoque, 60, of Grand Rapids, MN, peacefully gained his wings surrounded by his cherished family on November 11, 2024, 25 years after receiving a selfless gift from his sister, Kendolynn, in the form of a kidney transplant. Bruce used those years to the fullest, experiencing a rich and loving life.

Bruce leaves behind his beloved father, Dale, of Grand Rapids; his devoted wife of 34 years, Lynnette; and his five children: Kelsey (Oliver Goulet), Jinnea (Adam Zenzen), Michael (Felicia LaRoque), Connor, and Reid. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Charles & Francis (Kelsey), Juliette & Grant (Jinnea), and his siblings, Steve LaRoque and Kendolynn Smith. In addition, Bruce will be deeply missed by his extended family, including his in-laws (Glenn and Molly McLeod and Ron and Angie Ulseth), his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Bruce was preceded in death by his mother, Mavis, who now welcomes him home with open arms.

Bruce was born in Bagley, MN, on December 13, 1963, to Dale and Mavis LaRoque. In 1967, the LaRoque family moved to Grand Rapids, MN. His childhood was filled with hunting, traveling to Bagley to spend time with extended family, including many cousins, and countless pickup hockey games on Donovan Drive and at the Southwest rink with friends and his older brother Steve. Bruce took immense pride in both his academics and sports and displayed passion, determination, and hard work from a young age. Before graduating high school in 1982, he participated in hockey, baseball, and football, competing at the state tournament in all three.

Following his high school graduation, Bruce enrolled at Bethel College in 1982, where he played on the college hockey team for one season before transferring to St. Cloud State University. There, he became a member of the Huskies hockey team and played for three seasons. In his final year, he was coached by Herb Brooks and was awarded the Sam LoPresti Award as the most dedicated player, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to hockey. After completing his student teaching for secondary education social studies and graduating from St. Cloud State University, Bruce moved back to Grand Rapids to embark on his teaching and coaching careers.

Bruce met his wife, Lynnette, in 1988. They were married on July 14, 1990, in Grand Rapids, MN, and began building a life together. They had five children, whom they raised in a home of unconditional love. Bruce and Lynnette's marriage embodied essential values, supporting each other in both sickness and health. Bruce began his teaching career at Grand Rapids High School, where he taught social studies for 33 years. As a teacher, Bruce displayed endless enthusiasm for education and continued his own education by earning his Master's Degree in Education from Bemidji State University. He cherished the opportunity to work alongside fellow educators who shared his passion for teaching, finding inspiration in the camaraderie and dedication of his colleagues. He had a reputation for engaging students and encouraging them to be their best selves. This passion carried over into sports, where he became a beloved coach and mentor to many in hockey, football, and baseball. In 1999, Bruce took on the role of head coach for the Grand Rapids High School hockey team. During his tenure, he led two state runner-up teams and won multiple awards, including the Minnesota High School Hockey Coach of the Year. He took immense pride in his coaching role, encouraging athletes to work hard, work together, and, above all, love the game.

Those who met Bruce knew him for his contagious positivity, wonderful humor, incredible integrity, and warm smile. He led by example, was honest to a fault, and never spoke ill of others. He never complained, even during times of illness, and he lived each day with a contagious love for life. Bruce never hesitated to stop for a conversation or reminisce on old times. He was proud of his community and valued every opportunity to contribute to it.

Although Bruce loved both teaching and coaching, his greatest joy in life was his family, for whom he provided unwavering support, encouragement, and wisdom. His five children looked up to him not only as a father, but as a role model, guide, and friend. He was always there—at every dance performance, piano recital, band concert, and sports game or tournament, watching with a proud smile on his face.

In his later years, Bruce embraced and cherished his newest role as "Papa Bruce." Being a grandfather brought Bruce nothing but happiness. He delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, whether it was playing games, pushing them on the swing set, reading them stories, or giving them endless hugs, kisses, and tickles. His love, patience, and playful spirit created countless memories that will never be forgotten. He loved his wife, children and grandchildren with all his heart, and they loved him just as deeply.

Bruce Charles LaRoque leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion. He was the heart of his family and a cornerstone of its strength and success. His absence will be profoundly felt, yet his life will be honored and celebrated for generations to come. In remembering Bruce, we find comfort knowing that his spirit endures in the lives of all those he inspired. Bruce's family plans to establish a memorial scholarship in his honor for graduating high school seniors who are student-athletes, have a passion for social studies, and embody the qualities he lived by: dedication, kindness, integrity, leadership, and passion.

Bruce's wake will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Rowe Funeral Home in Grand Rapids, MN. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Grand Rapids, MN, with visitation from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service, at church. Reverend Vicki Taylor will officiate. A luncheon will immediately follow the service in the Zion Christian Life Center. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bruce's life alongside his family.

Bruce's loved ones would like those who read this to consider becoming organ donors, as Bruce's life was a testament to its impact. For more information, please check out, https://donatelife.net/