Richard W. Lafrenier, age 83 of Methuen passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 18, 2017 at the Wingate at Andover. Richard was born on June 24, 1933 in Methuen to the late Wilfred and Esther (Chapman) Lafrenier. Mr. Lafrenier was employed as a laborer for the City of Methuen for 24 years and also worked part time for many years at the Red Tavern of Methuen. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army. Richard was a member of the Arlington Social and Athletic Club of Lawrence. During the 1980’s, Richard was a first base coach for the men’s fast pitch softball league, whose games were played at the Hayden-Schofield Park on Lawrence St. in Lawrence. He loved all Boston sports teams.
Richard was the beloved husband of the late Evelyn B. (Weidlich) Lafrenier. He was the devoted father of Linda Haynes and her husband Jack of East Hampstead, NH, Sandra Cote and her husband Theodore of Goffstown, and Garry Lafrenier of Ohio. Richard was the loving grandfather of Megan Vachon, Marissa Vachon, and John Haynes III. The family would like to send their deepest gratitude to the staff at the Wingate at Andover Nursing Home.
Friends and guests may call on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home, 233 Lawrence St. Methuen. A funeral service will be held immediately following calling hours, beginning promptly at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery of Methuen. In honor of Richard’s grandson, donations in his memory may be made to Melmark New England, 461 River Rd. Andover, MA 01810 ATTN: Memorial Donations or you may donate online at www.melmarkne.org click “donate now” and select “memorial” where you can write the name of the memorial intended. For directions and online guestbook, please visit the funeral home website, www.pollardfuneralhome.com. The Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home is honored to serve the Lafrenier Family.