- Photo Thom Falzarano
From Kristin Michel
At the final GHS home hockey game of the season on Wednesday night, EMT Frank LaFrance will “retire” from his duties. Many of us have seen Frank at Newell Stadium or Dorothy Talbot Rink carrying his faded orange equipment bag, standing ready to attend to student athletes who may become injured during competitive play.
I have known Frank for several years and had no idea that he was a volunteer. I was even more surprised when Frank told me how long he had been volunteering. Frank has been proudly volunteering as an EMT for the GHS varsity football and hockey teams for the past 37 years!
One thing I do know about Frank is that he would never look for recognition, but I am sure you will agree that he certainly deserves it. Frank has done a tremendous service to our athletes, our schools, and our city.
If you are in the stands on Wednesday night, look across the rink to the left of the American flag and join me in saluting Frank LaFrance for his dedication to our student athletes and his 37 years of service to the City of Gloucester.
Good Morning Gloucester 
Frank LaFrance is one of the most kind hearted and generous men I have ever known. He is a tried and true man’s man and he is adored and respected by everyone that knows him. How deserving he is of this honor!!! If you’re ever in a sticky situation, he’s the guy you want to know. Gloucester is lucky to have him and Good luck replacing him!!
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Well, it’s hard to believe that the Ole Bugger is retiring. Frank is one of the kindest, good hearted men I know. He’s always willing to lend a hand and help out when and where ever needed. Volunteering for anything for 37 years seems pretty unbelievable but if you know Frank it’s not hard to believe at all. Gloucester has had a real treasure in a guy that has been manning his post at football and hockey games for nearly 4 decades. I’m sure he will be sorely missed. I guess now he can pursue his dream to be Gloucester’s most famous weather man.
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I am very proud of my Grampy for helping all of these people. I love him very much.
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I am so proud of my Dad. Some of my earliest memories are of him in his EMT uniform headed out to a game. I used to go with him to many of the games and I would get to sit in the Rescue Squad and drink hot chocolate. Many people don’t know that he was also an Auxilary Fireman for the past 40+ years as well and spent many hours hanging out at the Bay View Fire Station and responding to events that needed backup. He loved going to the games and he loved helping out whether it was just an ice pack for a player, a bee sting for a bystander or calling for an ambulance for someone more seriously hurt. My Dad may be retiring his EMT license but he it will ALWAYS be a huge part of who he is. I am so pleased that the people of Gloucester are recognizing him and his dedication to the City. He is a true Gentleman and proud to be a son of Gloucester. I love him so very much and he has touched so many people. The City of Gloucester will have a hard time filling his boots!!
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What an amazing, kind-hearted man Frank Lafrance is! There was a time when I lived with Frank’s family while I was at Endicott College. His daughter Mireille and are great friends and we worked together at the time. Frank took me in like a second daughter, and I will never forget how good he was to me. Especially helping me with car repairs, etc! I love this handsome photo of Frank. He is deserving of every kudos given.
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Uncle Frank! You are and always have been an incredible Uncle in which we can always turn to and think of with pride…you will be missed as a very reliable EMT for sure! I wish I could write more as there are so many fond memories of what a great person you are..but I am away in Canada and my kids are only alloting me 3 minutes of personal time before I am rushed to the next event! Congratulations ..you are admired by many!
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Frank LaFrance born with a servent’s heart. He spent his life loving the people of Gloucester. His huge impact on so many lives was made while humbly working on the side lines. Frank never required the spot light. He did, however carry his “EMT” bag like a badge of honor whether to save a life or bandaid a childs knee. He is a town gift who lends his many talents to serve in his neighborhood and throughout his community.
He loves his job but is family is his passion. As the LaFrance patriach he is available to share his time, his wisdom, his resources and always his love.
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Awesome and what an inspiration! I am a pathetic waste of space clod of flesh.
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Frank LaFrance, a kind, strong, friendly gentleman who loves his family with his whole heart and soul….he embraces all that it means to be a father, and grandfather, and truly wears his love for his family in every way.
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The BEST person you could know in your lifetime. So gentle and kind to everyone. You feel so special. I remember years ago a birthday party where one very young man had a lollypop (didn’t know bubblegum in the middle) he didn’t know how to chew bubblegum at so a young age and started to gag. And there was Mireille’s Dad… he took charge… and saved the day… a very happy memory I will have forever! Thank you Frank and you deserve every bit of this Tribute!!
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