Donald R. LaFond, 73, of Essex Junction, VT, died on December 6, 2024, at home, following a long illness.

He was born on February 21, 1951 in Burlington, VT the son of Edward R. LaFond and Dorothy M. Hunter (Peters-LaFond).

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. Family was everything to him and he cherished the many times spent with each and every one of them.

Donald is survived by his son, Justin LaFond and fiancé, Haley Hufman, and their son, Riley LaFond (grandson and the light of his eyes). He is also survived by his daughter, Carmen Forcier and family; his siblings Lorraine Blanchette, Ronald LaFond, and his wife, Paulette LaFond, Linda Whalon, Richard LaFond, Dale LaFond, Karen Walker and her husband Larry Walker, Robin Martin and her husband Randy Martin; his sister-in-law Lorraine LaFond (wife of Edward "Buddy" LaFond), and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Edward R. LaFond in 1989; his mother, Dorothy Hunter (Peters-LaFond) in 2003, and his brother Edward "Buddy" LaFond in 2021.

A celebration of life will be organized and held at a later date. In remembrance of Donald's life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the Veterans Administration and/or Essex Rescue, Inc.