Charles Gary LaFrance

Charles Gary LaFrance, a dedicated forester for the Oklahoma Forestry Department and Land Tech and Appraiser for the Oklahoma School Land Commission, passed away on May 25, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 pm with family greeting guests from 5-7 pm at Dighton Marler Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at Dighton Marler Funeral Home in Stillwater. Interment will follow at Fairlawn Cemetery in Stillwater. Dighton Marler Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.

He was born on September 27, 1944, in Pryor, Oklahoma.
 
Gary had a passion for forestry that was evident throughout his life. He grew up in Stillwater and graduated from Stillwater High School in 1962. He furthered his education at Oklahoma State University where he earned a B.S. in Forestry in 1967. Gary was not only academically inclined but also excelled in sports, achieving the title of state runner-up in wrestling and participating in football. Additionally, his love for the outdoors led him to obtain a pilot's license and enjoy deer and quail hunting. Gary was known for his strength and kindness. He will be remembered by family and friends alike as a “gentle giant”.
 
He is survived by his children Terry LaFrance, Lori LaFrance and her husband Ryan, and Stacie LaFrance and his ex-wife Ernestine “Chris” LaFrance, his nephew James and Trish Cash and their children Justin and James Cash.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents Albert Clifton and Faith Alameda (Burford) LaFrance, as well as his sister Sybil LaFrance, half-sister Betty LaFrance, and nephew Craig Shadoan.
 
Throughout his life and career, Gary LaFrance touched the hearts of many with his dedication to ranching and his love for nature. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers family asks for memorial contributions to be made in his name to the American Diabetes Association.

Condolence may be sent to the family via an online guestbook at www.dightonmarler.com.