Denise E. Schaller

Denise (Larouche) Schaller, 68 of Hebron passed away on Sunday, December 24, 2017at home with her family at her side. Born April 6, 1949 in Nashua NH, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Lena (Boissennault) Larouche who moved their young family to Connecticut in 1956. Growing up in Bloomfield, Denise remained in Connecticut where she earned her Associates degree in business from Asnuntuck Community College in Enfield. There she was awarded the prestigious Broken Paddle Award for being the outstanding student of the year. She managed the highest performing Gloria Stevens exercise facility in the state and also served as a substitute teacher in East Windsor. Denise settled in Hebron with her loving husband Russell where she served as the Public Works Secretary for 17 years, a position to which she was devoted and greatly enjoyed. Denise and Russell, at their property Woody Acres, participated annually in the Hebron Maple Festival where visitors enjoyed their sugarhouse, maple syrup and Denise's maple confections. Indulging her creative side as a crafter she was active as a demonstrator for Stampin' up!. Weekly get-togethers with local participants resulted in personal and beautiful handmade cards and other items. Denise's generous spirit and positive "can do" attitude were among many of her endearing qualities. She took great pleasure in doing special favors for others and presenting thoughtful surprises to family members, friends and co-workers. Nothing made Denise happier than caring for her family and home in which she took great pride. Her warmth, strength and enthusiasm for life, before, and throughout her illness were truly inspirational to all who knew her. She is survived by her husband Russell of 33 years; her daughters Lisa Stavol, Leslie Ross and husband Terry, and son Russell David Schaller; stepson Jeff and wife Desiree, her sisters Rosanne Roberts and husband Cliff, Vivien Larouche and husband Ken, Linda Winter and husband Mark; brothers Paul Larouche and wife Sue, Philip Larouche, and John Larouche; her sister in law Linda Fortuna and husband Bruce; brother in law Kenneth Schaller, nine beloved grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many good friends. Denise was predeceased by her parents Paul and Lena (Boissennault) Larouche, stepfather Ed Desjourdy, twin brother Denis Larouche, sister Louise (Larouche) Bouchard and stepdaughter Heather Schaller. A celebration of Denise's life will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to Oncology Associates of Windham Hospital. Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, Manchester has care of the arrangements. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com