City Mourns Former Alderman LaRose

Word was beginning to circulate Saturday morning of the passing of former city Alderman Richard LaRose.

Mayor Donnalee Lozeau said LaRose will be remembered as "one of the good guys."

"I have respected and admired Dick Larose for many years.  We served together in both the legislature and city government.  He always said his priority was to do a good job.  That really captures who he was, a good government guy, who never engaged in criticizing others, always able to be a gentlemen who could keep an eye on the big picture," Lozeau said. "Our city and our state lost one of the good guys; it was my privilege to call him my friend."

Alderman Diane Sheehan said LaRose was a mentor to her, as she learned the ropes as a new public servant.

"He was a statesman, who offered me very sage advice as a new Alderman. Nashua, and the State of NH was a better place for having him serve so long, in so many capacities. I am a better Alderman for his advice and example. He has left a lasting mark on my outlook as a public servant. I am sad to hear of his passing, and keep his family in my prayers," Sheehan said.

Alderman Jim Donchess posted this on his Facebook page early Saturday morning:

"Dick served the City well in various capacities. I knew Dick as an alderman and a Planning Board member and as one of the owners of the former Modern restaurant. Dick was always a gentleman. On the Planning Board in recent years Dick tried to prevent lot stuffing in our neighborhood, for which I will always be grateful. Rest in Peace Dick."

LaRose served as a Ward 2 Alderman for 14 years total, taking a break to serve four terms as a State Rep. In 1993, at age 53, he received a heart transplant at Brigham and Womens Hospital, due to a congenital heart defect. The operation was a succes and restored his health and vitality. He finally resigned his Ward 2 seat at City Hall in October of 2011, when he moved to a home outside of his ward.

Visiting hours are Wednesday Feb. 6 from 4-7 p.m. at Farwell Funeral Home, 18 Lock St., Nashua. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Joseph the Worker parish, 777 West Hollis St., on Thursday Feb. 7 at 10 a.m.

Your comments of tribute to Alderman LaRose are welcome here, as well.