Michael LaChance

PUNTA GORDA, FLA./NAPLES — Michael Arthur “Mike” LaChance, 65, of Punta Gorda, Fla. and Naples, passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2016.

Michael was born on Nov. 19, 1950, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Edgar J. and Mary E. LaChance. He was the beloved husband of Susan M. (Campbell) LaChance, with whom he shared almost 35 years of marriage.

Mike fought a long and courageous battle against cancer. Never complaining, he was a source of inspiration to many with his positive attitude, courage, and determination. He was described by his oncologist as a “ferocious fighter,” accepting each challenge presented during his journey with hope and optimism.

Mike had a successful career in the tire and rubber industry, working for over 38 years in various managerial positions for several companies with both local and international presence, retiring in 2013 as a Regional Sales Manager with Tyres International, of Stowe, Ohio. He was a man of principle, maintaining the highest standards of integrity and honesty in all of his dealings.

At a young age he was exposed to music. He played trumpet, and arranged and recorded music as well. For many years he played weekends with different orchestras in the New England area. This love of music went beyond playing; he enjoyed listening to music of all genres, and would challenge anyone on naming tunes or a particular artist.

A man of varied interests, he loved traveling to the Caribbean, scuba diving, and boating. Mike was a consummate “Captain,” planning each trip — ever mindful of tides, weather, and sea conditions. He enjoyed ocean boating in Casco Bay in Maine, and in Charlotte Harbor and the Pine Island Sound, in Florida. He also enjoyed boating in the Lake Region of Maine, where he and Susan spent summers for over 24 years.

Memories of Mike always include his quick wit and his dry sense of humor, but also include his willingness to help others. He had a knack of research on the Internet, and was often called upon to help friends and family alike.

Mike will be greatly missed by many including his loving wife Susan; his son Michael A. LaChance Jr. of Md., his brother, Norman (Sharyn) LaChance of Cocoa Beach, Fla., and his granddaughter Serena A. LaChance; his mother-in-law Bernadette T. Campbell; sister-in-law Bernadette M. Campbell; and three brothers-in-law John E. Campbell Jr., Joseph C. Campbell and Steven A. Campbell. Additionally, he was loved and admired by several nieces and nephews; two great-nephews; and several close and dear friends as well.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar J. and Mary E. LaChance; and his father-in-law, John E. Campbell Sr.

Family and friends were invited to attend calling hours on Monday, May 30, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Conte Funeral Home, 17 3rd Street, North Andover, Mass. A funeral mass was celebrated at Saint Michael's Parish Church, 196 Main St., North Andover, Mass., on Tuesday, May 31, at 10 a.m. A memorial service will be held at Sacred Heart Church in Punta Gorda, Fla., at a later date. There will be a private interment held in Maine.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Michael LaChance to support cancer research and name a gene in his memory. Please note “Michael LaChance Giving Page” on the check and send to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston MA 02284 or give to www.myjimmyfundpage.org/give/MichaelLaChance. To leave online condolences, please visit www.contefuneralhomes.com