Francis Joseph LaBrecque

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Francis Joseph LaBrecque, lovingly known as Fran, who departed this life peacefully on May 29, 2026, in Boca Raton. He was 77 years old. Born on April 21, 1949, in the quaint town of Alpena, Michigan, raised in Hyde Park, Massachusetts. Fran was the cherished son of the late Alfred Neil LaBrecque and Ida DiMarzio LaBrecque. Fran's life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and an indomitable spirit. He graduated from Hyde Park High School in 1967, setting the foundation for a life filled with accomplishments and adventures. He embarked on his professional journey with humble beginnings, working various jobs from towing cars to cleaning floors. However, his entrepreneurial spirit and visionary thinking led him to seize the opportunity of a lifetime in 1975, when he founded American Discount Auto Parts (ADAP), a groundbreaking concept that introduced discount auto parts to the industrial Northeast. Under his leadership as president, ADAP flourished into a chain of 45 stores, creating 600 new jobs and fostering friendships that endured for decades. The company was later acquired by Rite Aid Corporation in 1984, marking a significant milestone in Fran's illustrious career. In 1981, Fran furthered his education by enrolling in the Executive Masters of Education program at Northeastern University. His passion for sharing knowledge led him to conduct a one-day seminar for CEOs of million-dollar businesses at Northeastern in 1985. Encouraged by his colleagues, Fran embraced the opportunity to teach a course on "Entrepreneurship" to undergraduate students, earning a devoted following. In 1986, he and the "Bobbys" found Gasoline Alley, in Lakeville, MA. ML Carr, defensive guard for the Celtics in th 70's was the face of their advertisments. Fran soon put his enrgies in realestate development. Along with his partner of 55 years, Donald Branbants the started Lancaster Realty. He then went to create residential devleopents in NOrwood, Dover and Wrentham all of Massachusetts. His partner, the late Chrisptphr balboni and he worked tirelessly on this project. His long time friend Bobby Mahoney was supportive in his projects especially the early days in Wrentham. Fran's son, Jonathan LaBrecque now oversees the Wrentham project today. Fran entrepreneural creativity never stopped. He also ktried to kick off a business that wouold attach filter to electric fans by creating the "Fan Bonnet." Fran's love of cars followed him his whole life. In his retirement years he refurbished a "blaster orange" 1970 classic Mustang. mach 1. He loved motorcycles, boating and golf. He was self taught on finance and pssed In his days in Boca, Fran could be found helping his local church or helping seniors with their taxes. Fran's personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. He married Lori Greenberg of Hull, MA, on December 23, 1979, iand together they shared over 30 wonderful years, raising three beautiful children with unwavering love and support. Fran is survived by his beloved wife, Lori LaBrecque; his children, Jessica LaBrecque of Mashpee, Jonathan LaBrecque and his fiancée Michelle Carey of Mansfield, and Diana LaBrecque of Newport, Rhode Island; and his brother, A. Neil LaBrecque of Hanson. He leaves behind three cherished grandchildren, Lily Brodeur, Corey LaBrecque, and Liam LaBrecque. He also leaves behind his nephews, Matthew LaBrecque, Stephen LaBrecque M. Jen LaBrecque & neice Joanna, LaBrecque Furtado m. Matt Furtado along with great nephew Ben LaBrecque & great neices Ava LaBrecque nd Abigail Furtado. Fran's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate doctors and nurses at the University of Miami Hospital, Kindred Care Hospital, and TrustBridge Care of Boca Raton, with special thanks to Dr. Richard Martinoff, Dr. Evan Trepana, and Dr. Emily Joncsak for their unwavering dedication and care. A celebration of Fran's remarkable life will be held on June 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Chapman Funerals, located at 74 Algonquin Avenue, Mashpee, MA 02649. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation, honoring veterans and first responders, at garysinisefoundation.org. Fran's legacy of love, generosity, and entrepreneurial spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. May he rest in peace, knowing that he leaves behind a world made better by his presence.