HERKIMER- Richard Smokey" LaFrance, age 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening April 21, 2015 in Folts Home. He had the comfort of his family at his side. He was born on June 27, 1928 at Akwesasne also known as Hogansburg, NY, son of the late Richard and Elizabeth Leafe LaFrance. He attended the Thomas Indian School from age 4-12 and was brought to Richfield Springs by Mr. Louis Bruce to reside at the Bruce Farm in 1942. On June 12, 1954 he was united in marriage to the former Grace Maxson in St. Joseph's Church, Richfield Springs, until her passing on April 18, 2003. Smokey was employed by various construction companies during the 1950's and 60's. During 1970's he was employed by Titan Homes and operated his own lawn mowing service in the area. He Retired in 2010. In his leisure time he enjoyed watching NASCAR racing and following his favorite NFL football team the New York Giants To all who knew him he was an honest and upright man. He was always willing to help someone without looking for something in return. He was a friend to many and will be greatly missed. He is survived by two sons Phillip Scott LaFrance of Broadalbin and Charles Thomas LaFrance and his wife Fay of Richfield Springs, seven grandchildren, Joshua LaFrance and his wife Sarah, Jeremiah LaFrance, Sarah Mallow and her husband Mike all of Virginia, Jacob LaFrance and his wife Laura of Edison, NJ, Marc LaFrance, Ivy LaFrance both of Richfield Springs, Gabriel LaFrance who is in the US Navy, seven great-grandchildren, Kayleigh, Max, Bella, Logan, Lucas, Aubrielle, and Karlie, many nieces and nephew. Besides his parents and wife Grace he was preceded in death by his siblings Mike, Angus, Catherine and Margaret. A graveside funeral service for Mr. LaFrance will be held later this spring in the Columbia Dutch Reformed Church Cemetery at a time to be announced. Funeral arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home, Richfield Springs.