James R. LaChance, age 53, of Wallingford, passed away suddenly on January 21, 2016. Jim was the devoted and beloved husband of 29 years of Lisa (Todd) LaChance, and loving son of Barbara Alling LaChance Spire. He was born in Huntington, LI, NY on April 10, 1962, and grew up in Ridgefield, CT. Jim’s outgoing personality was well-suited to his career in the hospitality industry, where he mentored young people coming up through the ranks and had a lasting impact on the lives of many coworkers and friends. An avid fan of the Buffalo Bills, he suffered through years of frustration and heartache but never gave up on his team, always believing they would do better next year. This optimism was his approach to life in general, and he will be remembered by all who knew him for his exuberant, happy-go-lucky personality and sense of fun. He loved cars, music, and the outdoors, and dearly loved his furry friends at home. Jim was an excellent cook who will be best remembered for his ribs, Buffalo wings, and willingness to man the grill at any party. Jim was a loving and generous spirit whose final act of kindness was the gift of organ and tissue donation. In addition to his wife and mother, Jim will be lovingly remembered by his sister Sharon LaChance (Ed McComiskey), brother Steven LaChance, parents-in-law John and Linda Todd, sisters-in-law Pam (Peter) Yackulics and Jodi Todd, brothers-in-law Scott (Lisa) Todd and Steve (Krista) Todd, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his father, George Harold LaChance, and stepfather, Charles Spire. Friends may call on Tuesday, January 26, from 4 to 7 pm at the Riverview Funeral Home, 390 River Rd., Shelton. Jim’s funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, January 27 at 11 am. Please come as you are – Jim was not a suit-and-tie kind of guy. In accordance with Jim’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, 103 Vision Way, Bloomfield, CT 06002. Visit www.riverviewfh.com to leave condolences to Jim’s family.
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