Heritage \ Writings \

Alexander LaRoche (1832-1884)
Born in France, Confederate soldier, and long time resident of West Bay City.

1884 obituary. Contributed by James Petrimoulx - Oct. 2008.

The Bay City Tribune - Friday, August 1, 1884 (Page 6)

WEST BAY CITY
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Death of Alex. Laroche
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Alexander Laroche, one of the oldest residents of the city, died at 2:30 a.m. Yesterday at his home on Midland street between River and Linn. He had been suffering from consumption for the past 18 months, and was but a few days over 52 years of age. A few weeks since he disposed of his restaurant business and went east with a hope of benefiting his health. He only grew worse, however, and returned home, and had been confined to his bed ever since. He was born in Lorraine, France, July 23, 1832. In 1852 he came to Syracuse, N. Y., going south a few years later and serving over two years in the Confederate army. In 1864 he returned to Syracuse and married to Miss Eleanor Morel, who survives him. In the month of March, 1867, he came to this city and engaged in the restaurant business, remaining therein up to a short time ago. He was one of the founders of the Lafayette Benevolent society, and had a large circle of friends, especially among the French-speaking population of the Saginaw Valley. He leaves widow and two daughters. The funeral will be held under the auspices of the Lafayette society, and due notice will be given in The Tribune. Lafayette hall, the restaurant formerly owned by him in this city, is closed, and the flag on the Lafayette society's hall in Bay City is flaying at half mast.

Additional Notes.

1870 - Michigan Deaths: Wenona

• Date: Jun. 29, 1870.
• Federick Laroche, age 4 yrs., 6 months, parents: Alexander & Ellenor LaRoche.

  1883 - Directory: West Bay City Laroche, Alexander, Propr Lafayette Hall, Sample Room and Restaurant 115 Midland, 2d ward, res same.

  1891 - Michigan Marriages: West Bay City.

• Date: Dec 30, 1891.
• Groom: Edmund J. Witherspoon, age 24, of W.Bay City, b. Canada, parents: Alexander Witherspoon & Louisa Smoke.
• Bride: Madeline R. LaRoche, age 19, of W.Bay City, b. Mich., parents: Alexander LaRoche & Leonora Morell.
• Official: Joseph St. John, pastor P.E. Church.
• witnesses: Timothy Tynnig & Josie Quick.