Robert "Bob" LaFrance

Robert “Bob” Gerard LaFrance, 75, of Wagener, South Carolina, passed away on November 13, 2024, following a courageous cancer journey. Born on December 29, 1948, to Joseph and Elyse LaFrance. As a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, he devoted his life to his family. 

He is survived by the love of his life of 55 years, his wife, Myrna Murdaugh LaFrance. Together they shared three beautiful daughters and were blessed with two son-in-laws, whom he considered sons: Angie LaFrance of Aiken, Amy and Derrick Cooper of Leesville, and Molly and Jay Barney of Pelion. Life only got better when he became “Papa” to his four grandchildren whom his world revolved around: Emily (Jake) Sutcliffe of Cordova; Doc Cooper and Hank Cooper of Leesville; and Charlie Barney of Pelion, with the latest addition being his great granddaughter Kelly Ann Sutcliffe. He is also survived by his siblings, Connie Borcherding of Nebraska and Jerry LaFrance of Georgia; his very special sister, Mimi Glenn of Beaufort; and his beloved nephew, Robert Glenn (Nancy) of Atlanta. In addition to his immediate family, he shared a brotherly bond with Jeff Glenn (Shari). Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his loving sister, Sally Leenhouts.

Bob worked tirelessly and built a successful career as a renowned welder, working throughout the United States and beyond. He valued time spent with his brotherhood from Local 421, meeting the group for breakfast, and reminiscing with some of the people who loved and knew him best. 

Bob was a true craftsman, and always looked forward to the next "project". He was an avid outdoorsman who loved taking care of anything outside, spending time in his garden, fishing, and sharing his knowledge of the world around us. Many family trips were spent in the upstate of South Carolina, dedicated to family camping trips; instilling in his children and grandchildren a love for fishing, the mountains, and nature. He loved to share stories of “good ol’ days” with his children and grandchildren. 

He led with love, creating an everlasting bond with family and leaving a lasting legacy for anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. 

The LaFrance family will honor Bob’s life with a private service.

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