William “Bill” LaFrance passed away suddenly on February 21, 2014 in Oroville, Washington. Bill was born on January 27, 1934 in Kalispell, Montana, the middle child of nine siblings.

During his youth, Bill especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his grandfathers; “good times” he called them. Bill acquired a strong work ethic at an early age. For example, he worked on a hay farm for a time at age 11 for room and board while providing the remainder of his wage to help support his family.

At age 18, Bill enlisted in the Navy and served as a gunner’s mate on a destroyer escort during the Korean War. After serving his nation, Bill returned to Montana and went to work driving 18-wheelers. It was in 1961 when Bill met and wed the love of his life, Ruth.

Bill and Ruth moved to the coast and lived in east King County for many years, raising three wonderful children: Rick, Greg and Patti. Bill worked in construction for 34 years for Roxbury, Inc., retiring in 1990. Bill and Ruth have lived in Oroville permanently since 1996.

Bill was not only an avid fisherman, he was prolific, the Raging River was his favorite. He was always willing to share his fishing and hunting knowledge but was careful to never give away his secret spots. When asked where did you catch the fish he would always respond with “Right in the lip.”

Bill was always ready to help, whether it was tying a hook, building a shed, baking a sweet William apple pie or working with the children at the church. He made sure people had what they needed before he considered his own needs. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bill is survived by his ever-loving wife Ruth, son Rick and daughter-in-law Marita of Duvall, Wash., son Greg and daughter-in-law Adrienne of Plummer, Idaho and daughter Patricia, son-in-law Gary, grandson Erik Johnson of Battle Ground, Wash.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 8, 2014 at 11 a.m. at the Oroville Free Methodist Church, 1516 Fir St., Oroville.

Remembrances may be made to the Streetscape Committee at P.O. Box 299, Oroville, WA 98844, Attention Hillary Blackler.

Bergh Funeral Service of Oroville/Tonasket in care of arrangements.