Larry Roché

Class of 2004

Larry was born in 1947 in Brownsville, TX. He graduated from Mary Carroll High School, in Corpus Christi, TX, and earned his business management degree from San Jacinto College in Pasadena, TX.

In 1971, he married Louana, and together they have three children – Brian, Leanna and Kyle.

Larry began his working career as a stock clerk for Childers’ Wholesale in Corpus Christi from 1963 to 1967. In 1967, he began his candy career as a sales rep with Adams USA, then known as American Chicle.

Working his way up through the ranks, Larry served the company as key account manager, district sales manager, national account manager, manager of trade relations and, most recently, business manager.

He cites a career manager there, Thad Williams, as having largely influenced his business life, saying Williams provided him with direction and insight early in his career.

For his dedication to the industry, Larry has received the NCWA Industry Dean Award in 1990 and in 1998 was inducted into the AWMA Hall of Fame. He has received numerous sales honors from Adams and, in 1999, was awarded the company’s Creativity Award.

Although he says his early retirement from Adams in 2002 meant leaving behind many good friends and a rewarding job, he stresses the importance of maintaining ongoing pride in your company and in its products. He advises: “Demonstrate your beliefs to your customers through your words and actions.”

Making the most of his retirement, Larry is restoring a classic car with his