Roger LaFreniere

Roger A. LaFreniere

1936 - 2013 NORTH ADAMS Roger A. LaFreniere, 77, of Superior, Ariz., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle, died Saturday, June 15, 2013, at Mountain Vista Medical Center in Mesa, Ariz., after a long illness.

Roger was born Feb. 8, 1936, in North Adams, the son of Joseph Charles and Florence (King) LaFreniere. He attended schools in North Adams.

Roger and the former Jean McKeon were married at Holy Family Church on Nov. 30, 1957. Jean died March 3, 2005.

After working in construction locally, Roger and Jean moved to Bisbee, Ariz., in 1959. He worked many years in the copper mines, including the storied Lavender Pit in Bisbee and later in the Magma Mine in Superior, where they lived together for over 40 years. He also worked driving mining-related trucks prior to retiring.

Roger was an avid woodworker, whose intricate projects are treasured by the fortunate recipients. He was quick with a joke or story and would swiftly find humor and meaning, even in the most difficult of circumstances. A tough exterior camouflaged a tender heart with endless affection for family and friends.

Roger is survived by two sons, Terry (Condra) of Kennewick, Wash., and Timothy (Debbie) of Weed, Calif.; five grandchildren, Rachel, Danielle, Nathan and Tedra LaFreniere, and Tiffany White; four great-grandchildren, Sienna, Anthony, Aurora and Cale; one brother, Deacon Greg (Linda) LaFreniere of Adams, nieces, nephews and numerous cousins.

He was predeceased by two brothers, Laurence and Charles.

At Roger's request, there will be no services. Burial will be in Bellevue Cemetery at a later date.