JEFFERSON — Christopher M. LaFrance, 37, died unexpectedly from injuries sustained in a car accident Jan. 21, 2014, in Union.

Born in Rockport June 4, 1976, he grew up in Owls Head and was the son of Wilmer “Kit” and Joan Knowlton LaFrance. Educated locally, he graduated from Georges Valley High School with the class of 1994.

Following high school, Chris began his career as a lobsterman, fishing from his own boat for several years. Later he became a truck driver and heavy equipment operator, working for several local companies.

An avid outdoorsmen, Chris loved fishing, ice fishing, riding his motorcycle and four-wheeler, and had a passion for flying remote control airplanes. He enjoyed gardening and had beautiful vegetable gardens. Chris also loved fireworks. Whenever Chris arrived a firework would go off announcing his arrival.

Spending time with his family was a number one priority for Chris, especially playing with his nieces and nephews. He also had a special place in his heart for his four legged companions. Chris had a huge heart and was willing to help anyone who needed it.

Predeceased by his father, Chris will be sadly missed by his mother, Joan of Jefferson; his brother, Scott J. LaFrance and his companion, Shanon Stuart, of Cushing; his sisters, Loretta S. Hooper and her husband, Randall, of Warren, Liz L. Warren of Rockport, Jennifier M. LaFrance and her companion, Mark Eugley, of Damariscotta, and Amy E. Tarbox and her husband, Matt, of Falmouth; and his nieces and nephews, Sammantha, Krista, Jared, Allison, Meggan, Tyler, Brady, Cadence and Bentley.

Anyone who knew Chris knows that he always wore hooded sweatshirts. Family and friends are invited to wear their favorite hooded sweatshirt in remembrance of Chris to a celebration gathering Saturday, Feb. 1, at 3:30 PM at the home of Loretta and Randy Hooper, 257 Anderson Road in Warren. A fireworks display in honor of Chris' life will be held at dark.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home in Rockland.