04/27/2026
Laurent “Larry” Aurel Gamache, 81, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026. A lifelong resident of Willimantic, Larry was a devoted husband, loving father, and caring grandfather.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mariel Gamache, originally from Ste Perpétue, Québec, Canada; his son and daughter in law, Vincent and Kelly (Guthrie) Gamache of Willimantic, CT; his daughter, Nathalie Gamache of Hyattsville, MD; and his five grandchildren, Zachary, Ethan, and Ryan Gamache, and Noah and Rose Diaby. He was predeceased by his parents, Irene (Chouinard) and Aurel Gamache, as well as his sister, Gloria Gamache, and brother, Arthur Gamache. He is also survived by his sisters, Aurela and Linda Gamache, both of Willimantic, CT. He is also survived by several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews.
Larry attended St. Mary’s Parochial School and graduated from Windham Technical High School in 1963. Larry proudly served his country in the United States Navy, attaining the rank of Electrician’s Mate Third Class Petty Officer, completing a one year tour in Vietnam.
Well known throughout Willimantic as an auto mechanic, Larry worked alongside his father at Gamache Service Station from 1969, taking charge of the business in 1977 and working there until his retirement in 2023. A tireless and dedicated worker, he could often be found fixing something around the house or working in his yard when he wasn’t at the garage. He was at his happiest when family and friends gathered for cook-outs, card-playing, vacations and holiday festivities. In his quieter moments, Larry enjoyed listening to Country Classics, building jigsaw puzzles, and bird-watching.
Larry was deeply committed to his Catholic faith and to serving his community. He was a lifelong parishioner of St. Mary’s Church. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1724, the Franco American Civil and Social Club, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 1311, where he was recently honored with his 55 year pin. Larry was most active in the Knights of Columbus Council 14, where he was also a lifetime member and served in the past as Grand Knight, Faithful Navigator of Assembly 121, and Commander of the Color Guard for over 25 years.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday May 3, from 3 to 6PM at Bacon Funeral Home, 71 Prospect St in Willimantic, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday May 4, at 10AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 46 Valley St. in Willimantic, CT. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 134 Club Road, Willimantic, CT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice in memory of Larry Gamache. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com
