NORWAY — Henry E. LaFrance, age 82, of Norway, passed away peacefully on his birthday, Monday, Sept. 25, at his residence after a lengthy illness.

Henry was born in Norway on Sept. 25, 1935, a son of Joseph and Ruth (McLaughlin) LaFrance and graduated from Norway High School.

At a young age, Henry worked at hotels in Key West, Fla. After returning to Maine he went to work at the Norway Shoe Shop. He later worked at A.C. Lawrence Leather in the finishing department, and then Wilner Wood Products from where he retired.

Henry was a Norway Little League coach for several years and had coached with his brother, Robert “Bobby” LaFrance. He was an avid Red Sox fan, Notre Dame football fan and he also enjoyed reading history books. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He married Edith M. Gatchell on Dec. 9, 1962. She died on Jan. 16, 2015.

Besides his wife, Henry is also predeceased by three brothers, Robert “Bobby” LaFrance, Oliver LaFrance and Joseph “Dodi” LaFrance.

Surviving are two sons, Kerry LaFrance of Norway, and Shannon LaFrance; his wife, Debbie of West Paris; his daughter, Janelle Wilcox of West Paris; two sisters, Kathleen King of New York and Therese Frost of Florida; and four grandchildren, Jeremy Wilcox, Jessica Wilcox, Brady LaFrance and Parker LaFrance.

Condolences can be expressed at www.chandlerfunerals.com.

Henry E. LaFrance