The Winchendon Courier
Serving the community since 1878 ~ A By Light Unseen Media publication
Week of November 23 to November 30, 2023

Obituaries

Francis E. Plante

FRANCIS E. PLANTE
January 24, 1935 ~ November 20, 2023 (Age 88)

Winchendon - Francis E. Plante, a man of unwavering faith, adventurous spirit, and boundless love, was born on January 24, 1935, in Winchendon, Massachusetts, to the late George and Josephine Plante. His journey of 88 radiant years was marked by his infectious humor, humble heart, and a zest for life that left an indelible imprint on those fortunate to know him. Francis, a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life, departed from this world on November 20, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. To then be welcomed into heaven by his adored wife Sheila Plante, of whom has been awaiting him for 52 years.

Francis spent many years working in the furniture manufacturing industry at various mills including White Brothers, Carrier Furniture and Temple Stewart Furniture. His humble beginnings in Winchendon, never left him, and he carried his respect for hard work and determination throughout his life. He was a man who found solace in the beauty of nature, often taking long adventurous bike rides and hiking Mount Monadnock. His love for dancing was unparalleled, often becoming the life of every gathering with his infectious energy and humor.

Francis was a devout Catholic having attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for many years. Faith was an anchor in his life. He lived by the words of 1 Corinthians 16:14, "Let all that you do be done in love," and he truly embodied this verse.

Francis was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many. His laughter and love will be cherished by his daughters, Lorie LaRoche & her significant other Kevin Caron, Susan Tonet & her husband Edward, Sherry Scott & her significant other Dennis Nault; grandchildren, Hilary Scott, Katie Tonet, Amanda LaRoche, Angela Tonet, Jaryth LaRoche, Damian Scott, Joseph LaRoche, Eddie Tonet and Zakk Capitao; great grandchildren, Warren & Everleigh Stevenson, Brayden, Anneyah, Jaycob, Aaylah, and Taylan LaRoche.

Francis will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his funny anecdotes, and loving personality by his siblings; Anita Duplease, Eugene Plante, Alice Tousignant & husband Phillip, Beatrice Morgan & husband Albert, a brother-in-law Richard Johnson and sister-in-law Claudette Plante, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by siblings; Antoinette Plante, Arthur Plante & wife Pauline, Florence Plante, Walter Plante, Claire Johnson, Maurice Plante & wife Sylvia and a brother-in-law Donald Duplease. Who surely have missed him.

Calling hours will be held for Francis on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, from 5:00 pm- 7:00 pm, at the Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, Massachusetts. A Mass in his honor will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at 11:00 am, at the Immaculate Heart Of Mary Church, 52 Spruce St., Winchendon, Massachusetts.

Arrangements under the care of Stone Ladeau Funeral Home.
Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral directors.