1956 - 2022
No Vistitation Date Scheduled
No Funeral Date Scheduled
On Twosday, 2/22/22, a remarkable day, Maurice La-Garde, of Chelmsford, MA. passed away, at home, with his loving wife of 23 years, Heike Petermann, at his side. His sister, Yvonne La-Garde and brother-in-law, Paul Gagnon had just visited. The family is comforted by the thought of Maurice/Frenchie being with those he loved, while they enjoyed a final meal in his presence.
Maurice, a naturalized citizen was born in Montreal, Canada in 1956. He was the son of the late Ivan La-Garde and Hazel A. La-Garde.
Besides his wife, he is survived by nephew, Brett Gagnon and his partner, Jennifer Rousseau and their children Zoey Gagnon and Julia Parkhurst. He has two additional sisters: Yvette La-Garde married to David Rahm and Denise, married to Salvatore Cardello. On Heike’s side of the family, he leaves behind in Germany, Heike’s parents, Ursula & Robert Petermann, Heike’s brother Frank Petermann & his wife Monika, nephew, Marc, and niece, Franziska Petermann. He also has a plethora of friends on two continents.
Despite being a quadriplegic man, Frenchie worked all his life supporting himself and his wife. He was witty, generous, kind, a fabulous cook and created the Wheelchair Chef on Facebook. He inspired others; a man with disability who was fiercely independent and wouldn’t allow others to feel sorry for him. He demanded respect. He loved life and lived it to its fullest. He fought to live with dignity until the end of his life, in spite of overwhelming challenges.
FUNERAL NOTICE
Private services were held on March 1st at DOLAN FUNERAL HOME, 106 MIDDLESEX STREET, N. CHELMSFORD, MA. Donations may be made in his memory to his favorite charities: Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation https://www.christopherreeve.org/donate and/or NPR (National Public Radio) npr.org/donations/support.
ARRANGEMENTS BY DOLAN FUNERAL HOME 978-251-4041. Guestbook at www.dolanfuneralhome.com
Paul Anthony Liguori
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I am very sorry for your loss
We will all miss Frenchie
Linda Cox
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My deepest condolences to Heike and family on the passing of Frenchie. Blessings of peace to all. He was a special man and I’m pleased I had the opportunity to meet him at work with you, Heike.??
In friendship, Linda
joyce johnson
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I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Frenchie and i worked together at the Town Meeting Restaurant and shared many laughs together. when the bar would be six people deep one would often hear Frenchie say “Feet’s don’t fail me now!”! He was a joy to work with, an experience I wouldn’t trade. RIP my dear Friend!
Much love,
Joyce/Jill
Sue Leah
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So sorry for the loss of Frenchie
He was a wonderful guy . I love this jokes .
Sending prayers to you and your family & friends at this sad time ?
Penny Moreno
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A loving tribute to a lovely man. My deepest sympathy
Penny
Cliff Dexter
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I can’t remember the last time I cried, at least 30 something years ago. As soon as I saw the first photo of Frenchie, I balled like a little girl. I love you Frenchie wherever you are.
Lew Theokas
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I shared a house with Frenchie for a year before moving to NH and eventually to Arizona amd lost touch. My fondest memory of that time is the coffee he always had brewing on the stove. Heaven is enjoying a great cup.
Deepest sympathies,
Lew Theokas
Joni Leahy
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What a beautiful tribute. I’m so sorry for your loss, I’m sending hugs and support.
Janet eastman
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I did not know Maurice personally but I have know his mom, Hazel for about 20 years. through her eyes I felt I did know how warm and strong he was.
My thoughts and love are with the Lagarde family threw this sad and difficult time.
May he Rest In Peace .
Alway,
Janet eastman.
Janet eastman
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I did not know Maurice personally but I have know his mom, Hazel for about 20 years. through her eyes I felt I did know how warm and strong he was.
My thoughts and love are with the Lagarde family through this sad and difficult time.
May he Rest In Peace .
Alway,
Janet eastman.
Viola
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I was so shocked to know about his death on Facebook. I had known and worked with Frenchie for years before his accident. funny, a friendly person Thank you Yvonne and Heike for sharing your love one with me.
R.I.P Frenchie