Funeral services for Kristofer L. LaRoche, 38, of Lower Brule, SD will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 2, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Lower Brule, SD with burial in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery at Lower Brule, SD.  Wake services will be 7:00 p.m. Friday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Lower Brule, SD.

Anyone wishing to follow, the procession will leave from funeral home on Friday at 3:00 p.m.

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We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Kristofer Lynn LaRoche, affectionately known as "Kris" to his friends and family. Kris joined the spirit world on July 26th, 2025 in Lower Brule at the age of 38 leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love

Born on February 11, 1987 in Garden City, Kansas to Lindsey and Suzie LaRoche. Kris was the proud father of two beautiful and wonderful daughters, Apryle and Kilee whom he loved very dearly.

Kris was known for his boundless kindness, adventurous spirit and dedication to hard work. He worked as a truck driver most of his adult life and proudly volunteered with the Lower Brule Fire Department, Presho Fire Department, North Haines Volunteer Fire Department, and Rapid Valley Volunteer Fire Department. He was awarded Firefighter of the year by North Haines VFD in 2008 and again by Rapid Valley VFD in 2012.  In 2016, Kris's work was publicly recognized when VFC Strong featured a recruitment video submitted by Kris, showcasing the strength and unity of the firefighting community in Rapid City, South Dakota. That video wasn't just a tool for recruitment—it was a window into the soul of a department built on family, camaraderie, and the unwavering drive to save lives.

Kris's legacy lives on in every life touched, every blaze extinguished, and every teammate inspired. Whether training new recruits or responding to emergencies, Kris brought integrity, grit, and compassion to every moment.  Kris's dedication to the Rapid Valley Volunteer Fire Department was more than a role—it was a calling.

When he wasn't fighting fires Kris could be found enjoying his favorite hobbies such as spontaneous adventures which included fishing, swimming, and just getting in the car to go for a drive. Kris also had a "do-it-yourself" attitude and could be found tackling home improvement projects or fixing vehicles. He was a man of many talents and always had a joke or a funny story to share with those around him.

Despite his untimely passing, Kristofer will be remembered fondly for his infectious smile, his kind heart, and his sense of humor. He may be gone, but his spirit lives on in the memories of all who were lucky enough to know him.

Kris' legacy lives on with his daughters, Apryle and Kilee, and his parents Lindsey and Suzie LaRoche and his siblings: Lindsey(April) LaRoche Jr., Michael LaRoche, Dustin LaRoche and Kaylynn(Kody) LaRoche and several nieces and nephews, several aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his cherished Grandmother Jeanie LaRoche, Grandfather Harold Hansen, and Grandmother Karen Symes.

Fireman's Prayer:

When I am called to duty, God wherever flames may rage,

give me strength to save a life, whatever be its age.

Help me to embrace a little child before it's too late,

or save an older person from the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert to hear the weakest shout,

and quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me,

to guard my neighbor and protect his property.

And if according to your will I have to lose my life,

bless with your protecting hand my loving family from strife.

"It's okay brother. We can take it from here. Rest in eternal peace"