Lawrence G. Laplante, age 83, passed away at Baystate Medical Center, with his loving family by his side. Lawrence was born on May 16, 1932, at home in Aldenville, MA to Edward and Dora Laplante. He entered the Army and served as a Corporal in France after which he was honorably discharged. He was employed for many decades at Eastern Etching in Chicopee. He married the love of his life and best friend, Mary (Mickey) McManus on June 30, 1956 and they had just celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. Along with his beloved wife, the couple spent many joyous times camping, spending time at the ocean, dancing and enjoying their large family. Lawrence was a jack of all trades, with a heart of gold who helped countless friends and families with small and large projects. He never refused someone in need. He delighted in dressing as Santa Claus and was the official Santa for the Santa Shack, a Sheraton Motel, and Enfield Square. In addition he was Santa for many children at parties and private homes. He is survived by his loving wife, Mickey and his two children and their spouses, Tammy and Wes Boucher, Barry and Elaine Laplante, both of Chicopee. He will also be sadly missed by his six grandchildren, Joshua, Derek, Jeremy, Darren, Brooke, and Desiree. In addition he was blessed by eighteen great grandchildren, Summer, Cameron, Eliana, Paige, Dillan, Emmarly, Cadence, Liam, Ronan, Hayden, Mason, Harper, Roslyn, Avery, Nora, Gabriella, Gracie and Gia. He is also survived by his only sister, Elaine Grant of Springfield in addition to cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by four brothers, Edward, Teddy, Richard and Ronnie. Lastly, but importantly Larry leaves behind his favorite four legged doggie, Lola. The Funeral Service will be held Wednesday July 15, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. from the Grise Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St Patrick’s Church in Chicopee. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Calling Hours will be held on Tuesday July 14, 2015 from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to The American Heart Association 54 Wayside Ave # C, West Springfield, MA 01089 or the Holyoke Soldiers Home 110 Cherry St. Holyoke, MA 01040.