Waterbury – Robert (Bob) L. LaRosa, 81, of Waterbury, passed away on July 13, 2022 surrounded by family at the VITAS Innovative Care Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital.
Bob was born on April 20, 1941 in Bronx, NY, son of the late Louis and Julia (Rapponi) LaRosa. Bob served honorably and proudly in the United States Marine Corps. He owned and operated Traffic Advisors, a direct mail marketing company, for many years. Bob was a founder of the Baseball Association of Wolcott and also served as President, mentoring countless youth. He was also instrumental in implementing the league’s flower sale fundraisers. Bob satisfied a lifelong desire of owning a horse when he adopted his beloved mustang, Tequila, 28 years ago and was a longtime advocate of the Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Program. Bob was President of the Cheshire Horse Council and found joy in coordinating ‘Meet the Horses’ events in the community and at rehabilitation facilities. Bob would light up a room the moment he entered and will be remembered by his gregarious laugh, huge smile, bear hugs and a heart for the underdog.
Bob is survived by his children, Jeffrey LaRosa and his fiancé Allie White, Jennifer LaRosa and her husband Jonathan Horrocks; and Chris LaRosa and his wife, Dorigene; seven grandchildren, Zachary, Caleb, Jacob, Jeff, Kyle, Tyleigh, and Rachel; the love of his last six years, Felicia; his former daughter-in-law, Judy LaRosa; his horse and beloved best friend, Tequila; and many longtime friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, Ronald and Victor LaRosa and his former wife, Joan.
Family and friends may call on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. at Woodtick Memorial, 420 Woodtick Rd., Wolcott. A service will be held at 5:00 P.M. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Tequila’s care at The Sanctuary at Half Moon Farm, 800 Boulder Road, Cheshire CT 06410 or via Venmo.
