Biosafe’s ‘fearless leader’ Rob Larose dies

Rob Larose, who started Biosafe Systems with his father and has been the president and CEO for more than 25 years, died Sept. 25. He was 64.

The company released a statement, calling Larose a fearless leader and visionary businessman whose loss is being mourned immensely by industry colleagues, friends and others.

“Rob started this company in the basement of his home in New Jersey and used his business acumen to commercialize peroxyacetic acid and grow BioSafe Systems into a thriving national presence,” according to the company statement. “It was Rob’s ambition to expand to the West Coast, build and develop three manufacturing sites across the country, and explore opportunities in modern markets. Rob took every defeat and learned from it, and that’s why BioSafe Systems is the success it is today.”

A Christian mass will be at 11 a.m. Oct. 12 at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Simsbury, Conn. A celebration of life will follow at the Metro Bis Restaurant, Simsbury.

Larose’s daughter, Lauren Rose Crane, is assuming the role of president, according to the company.

“Lauren has been committed to BioSafe Systems all her adult life and directed the operations department for the last ten years, ensuring optimum efficiency of daily operations and supported by a strong management team,” according to the company’s statement.

“BioSafe Systems is looking forward to a future that honors Rob’s entrepreneurial ideals, makes him proud, and illustrates how thankful we are for the wisdom and guidance he gave us,” according to the statement.

Many family members work at BioSafe Sysems, and have for years.

“Rob’s favorite thing was his people, he loved working on people, and giving people chances and opportunities to grow. He was a father to all, he was the captain of the ship,” according to his obituary.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Ann “Nemeth” Larose, sons Michael and Matthew Larose, daughter Lauren Crane, and granddaughters Emma and Ava Crane.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Farm Aid.