Brian D. LaFrance
February 12, 1975 ~ May 6, 2013
PORTLAND - Brian D. LaFrance, 38, passed away on May 6, 2013 in Portland, after a courageous battle with leukemia. He was born in Lewiston, on February 12, 1975, the son of Robert N. LaFrance and Helene J. Bernier. In Lewiston, Brian was involved in the Boy Scouts, achieving Eagle Scout status, for which his family was very proud. He was a 1993 graduate of Lewiston High School, and then went on to receive his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in International Affairs and Economics at the University of Maine, Orono. On August 12, 2002, he married Leslie Corey in Las Vegas, NV. An exceptional chef, Brian loved cooking for his friends and family. He enjoyed hunting with his uncles, fishing with his friends, and traveling to Key West with his wife. Growing up in Grand Lake Stream, Brian loved to return there for fly fishing and spending time on the water. Brian is survived by his beloved wife of over ten years, Leslie LaFrance of Portland; his mother Helene Bernier and significant other John Sprague; father, Robert N. LaFrance and significant other Paula Monaghan; maternal grandmother, Juliette Bernier; sister, Danielle Baker and husband Ciaran all of Lewiston; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the staffs of Maine Center for Cancer Medicine, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Brigham and Women's Hospital for the kind and compassionate care they gave to Brian. Visiting hours will be held from 2-4 and 6-8pm, Thursday, May 9 at Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. Prayers will be recited at 9:15am, Friday, at the funeral home, followed by a 10 am Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph's Church, 673 Stevens Ave., Portland. Burial will be private. Those desiring, may make memorial contributions in Brian's honor to the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital, Maine Medical Center, 22 Bramhall St., Portland, ME 04102, or to the Jimmy Fund, 10 Brookline Place, 6th Floor, Brookline, MA 02445-7295.Online condolences may be expressed below.
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Leslie – you probably don’t remembeer me, but I worked with Brian at the old Fleet office at 2 Portland Square and also met you at some of Kitty Monique’s and Patty’s – all years ago now. But I remember Brian as one of the really good guys – someone you felt instantly comfortable around, and I loved to hear him laugh. I am so sorry for your loss.
– Jill Henderson
Helene Danielle, cannot express our sorrow for your lost. Thinking of you with love and asking God peace blessings Love Bob and Anita
– Bob and Anita Desjardlins
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time. May God be with you and bring you comfort.
– Gloria and Earl Sprague
I am so sorry to hear about Brian. He was so much fun to be around always upbeat and funny. You could not help laughing just talking to him. My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family
– Carol Roderick
Helene + Bob, Imagining your pain is impossible for me because of the pain I feel regarding Brian’s passing. What can be worse than losing a child? Not having had contact with Brian in a long time I can only remember what a wonderful child he was. I was always pleased that he was a friend of my children and our family. We loved him like our own. I know there is a positive message somewhere in his passing but at the moment it eludes me. My thoughts and prayers are with Brian and his family.
– John Beganny
Brian was my lab partner in chem and we shared many other classes as well. Although I haven’ seen him since high school, I can still see that smile and hear his contagious laugh and joking. My heart is heavy hearing he was taken from this world so young. I am praying for all of his friends and family during this difficult time.
– Jennifer Robitaille Mercier
Leslie, I just heard of Brian’s passing, and was saddened and surprised by this.. I wanted to let you know that Chris and I are thinking of you and both of your families. We so enjoyed having you both as neighbors and remember the wonderful tomatoes Brian grew fondly. Rachel Horton White (your former neighbor on William Street)
– Rachel Horton White
I am so sad to hear this. Brian was just the greatest guy, always a lot of fun to be around. I will miss him. My deepest condolences to Leslie and the whole family.
– Joe Merrill
Our hearts go out to you all. We will forever remember him with a big smile and hugs. God Bless
– Joan & Evelyn
I remember Brian in my chemistry class with Mr. Dolloff, working with him on experiments. Fun and decent guy, so sad to read this. My condolences to all of you during this difficult time. Rest in peace.
– Adam Vincent
so very sorry to hear of your sons passing bob, I recall the many discussions we had over the years about your son and my sons … you are in my prayers my good friend.
– Richard Gato
My heart goes out to Bob and the entire family over the loss of Brian. May he now be at peace and suffer no more, God rest him.
– Art Piteau
Helene and Danielle, Our hearts went out to you as we heard of Brian’s passing. Please know that our prayers are with you. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
– Greg and Sue Weber
Dear Leslie and Family, We send our heart-felt condolences to you. Please know we’re thinking of you and hope that precious memories will bring you comfort during this though time. Our love to you, Chuck and Jody
– Jody Leary
I sat next to Brian in Mr. McGraw’s Biology class when I was in 9th grade and he was in 10th. We became friends and remained so through high school. I saw him about 10 years ago at a chamber of commerce breakfast in Portland and haven’t seen him since, but this news weighs heavy on my heart today. He was such a decent human being. My condolences and heartfelt best wishes to his family and friends. We lost a really good guy.
– Joshua Shea
I am so sorry for your loss of Brian. He will forever be in our hearts!! Thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
– Sherrie Thomas