Rae Gabriel Declercq Laricchia

Rae Laricchia was born in Grosse Pointe, Michigan in 1925. She moved to Southern California in 1953. Later in life, Rae met and married her true love, Larry Laricchia. She was so proud to be married to her handsome Italian husband. Together, they moved to Covina, California, where they resided for over 30 years until her passing July, 21, 2013. Rae had been blessed with two daughters, one son, two step-daughters, 9 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Besides being kind and generous, Rae had a vibrant personality and zest for life. She loved taking short trips with her husband to Las Vegas. In her early years, she enjoyed camping, boating and water-skiing and even appeared on several TV game shows, including Queen For A Day, Let's Make A Deal and Bowling for Dollars. Rae and Larry worked together at several California race tracks, including the Pomona Fairgrounds, Hollywood Park and Santa Anita. She also had the honor of working at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles with her husband. In 1993, Rae retired to spend more time with friends and family, go shopping with her daughters, and playing Bingo. Rae had always been considered to be a "lucky red head".

She loved her husband and was proud to let everyone around her know it. When her Alzheimer's progressed to the point of placing her in a nursing home, Larry would visit her twice a day, every day. Although, she had lost most of her memory, she never forgot Larry, always greeting him with a big smile and kiss. Together, they would sit and eat the chocolates and cantaloupe he brought to her regularly.

Rae had a great sense of humor and a smile that would light up the room. When she got together with her daughters, they would laugh until tears flowed down their faces. She bestowed smiles and hugs on everyone around her, with a warm-heart and compassion that was undeniable. Rae touched the lives of many and will be missed greatly . She will forever remain in the hearts of all of us.


Arrangements are under the direction of Forest Lawn, Covina, CA.