Obituary
Rena J. (Rondini) LaFrance 72 passed away peacefully on 10/21/21 with her loving family by her side. She was born on March 19,1949 and was a lifelong resident of New Britain, CT until 2016 when she retired to Port Charlotte, FL.
Rena is survived by her husband and Soulmate, Harry J. LaFrance, who she married on Block Island and shared 45 amazing years. Rena lived a very full life while traveling around the world. Rena had a passion for the islands where she and Harry spent nearly 2 decades in Aruba for the month of November; their home away from home. Prior to extensive traveling the two were avid boaters for more than two decades having a 32 Ft Cabin Cruiser off Long Island Sound docked at Harry’s Marina in Westbrook, CT. The boat was appropriately named “Rena”.
Being entertainment buffs, over the course of their journey together saw countless musicians and celebrities. She was fortunate enough to meet Tobey Keith, Paul Anka and Chubby Checker to name a few.
If you knew Rena well, you were her “Honey”, “Buddy” or “Baby doll”. There is not a person that met Rena that did not instantly adore her. She had the best stories which she told with detailed passion. Anyone who knew Rena was touched by her kindness, humor, and positive outlook on life. She would like to strike up conversation with anyone, anywhere. She enjoyed cooking and you could taste the love in everything she made. Some her favorites include Chicken Soup, Bolognese, Meatballs, Chicken Pot Pie and Lasagna.
She is also survived by her three daughters and their spouses, Patricia and Christopher McFarland, Ann and Michael Fortier, and Tracy LaFrance and Ted Hoadley. She was blessed with 9 wonderful grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren who she loved dearly. And a sister, Anna (Rondini) Drago.
After being a stay-at-home Mom for many years, Rena reentered the work force and landed a position with Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company (CML) where she excelled and inevitably was appointed an officer of the company as an Assistant Vice President. Additionally, she was a member of the CML Golf League for many years where she developed lifelong bonds of friendship with many.
She was predeceased by her parents Anio & Fanny Rondini, and her brothers Joseph Rondini and Anio Rondini, Jr.
She leaves behind many very dear friends who she regarded as family. She was a devout Catholic. Rena has gone on to the next phase of her journey and will continue to spill rays of sunshine into the lives of many. Rena left a lasting impression in the hearts of many and will be greatly missed.
All my love, Honey
Honey