Bernice Elizabeth (Blankenfeld) LaRochelle

Bernice Elizabeth LaRochelle

January 9, 1946 - August 29, 2024

Bernice (Blankenfeld) LaRochelle of Lisbon passed away unexpectedly on August 29, 2024.  

She was born in Norwich, CT on January 9, 1946; daughter of Otto and Alma (Boenig) Blankenfeld. 

Bernice was a graduate of NFA, class of 1963, and later graduated with an Associate's Degree from Mohegan Community College.  She married Raymond LaRochelle Sr., they had 2 children Ray Jr. and Lisa, built a home in Lisbon in 1966, where she lived for the rest of her life. 

Bernice was the Business Office Manager at Convalescent Center of Norwich for most of her career.  She continued working in the healthcare field as a medical biller / coder up until her death.  She served on the Lisbon Board of Education and was active in MADD. 

In the past, Bernice was active in the Women’s League at Norwich Ten Pin, enjoyed golf, skiing, horseshoes, and tennis.  Bernice’s recent interests included puzzles, reading, traveling, and spending time with her friends including the Fab Four.  Her favorite hobby was quilting.  She loved making blankets and pillows, and gifting them to her grandchildren, family, and friends.  She was also a fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots.  Above all, her most joy came from the time she spent with her grandchildren and being “Grammy”.

Bernice is survived by her son Raymond LaRochelle Jr. (Rose Savignac) of Lisbon, her daughter Ashley (David) Challinor of Oakdale; grandchildren Madilynn, Alexis, Jemma, and Dawson Challinor; Paul (Christie) Kenyon of Shelburne NH; sister, Linda (Richard) Fedor of Plainfield, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bernice was predeceased by her husband Raymond LaRochelle Sr (1975) and her daughter Lisa LaRochelle (1992).

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 5th, from 5 - 7pm, at Gagne Piechowski Funeral Home in Griswold.

Church service will be on Friday, September 6th, at 11am, at St. Mary’s Church in Jewett City. Reception/Celebration to follow.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bernice Elizabeth (Blankenfeld) LaRochelle, please visit our floral store.