Professor Merritt G. “Chuck” LaPlante, 89, of Dartmouth formerly of Mattapoisett died June 15, 2021 unexpectedly at home.
He was the husband of Julia L. (Mello) LaPlante.
Born in Worcester, son of the late Merritt B. and Louise (Morris) LaPlante, he lived in Mattapoisett most of his life before moving to Dartmouth 3 years ago.
He was formerly employed as a professor at S.M.U. for many years before retiring as head of the business school.
Chuck was a member of the Mattapoisett Congregational Church where he served as treasurer.
He served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean War.
Chuck enjoyed coaching Little League, yearly foliage trips to Vermont with his wife Julia, wintering in Florida, gardening and Thanksgiving dinners with his roast turkey and prized pies and his memorable Thanksgiving blessings will be missed.
Survivors include his wife; his 10 children, Debra Dine and her husband David of Merrimack, NH, James Henriques and his wife Donna of Florida, Cynthia Sylvia and her husband Kenneth of New Bedford, Antonio Henriques of Florida, George Henriques and his wife Karen of Westport, David Henriques and his companion Christine of Florida, Donna Friedlaender and her husband Nathaniel of Marion, Ronald Lopes and his wife Christine of Sandwich, Steven Lopes and his wife Beth of Mattapoisett and Scott Lopes and his wife Elizabeth of Sandwich; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was the father of the late Merritt “Putt” LaPlante and Julia Catunto.
His Graveside Service will be held on Monday, June 28th at 11 am at Cushing Cemetery in Mattapoisett. Visiting hours are omitted. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
