Greenfield, MA – Joseph P. LaChance, 84, of Leyden Road, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. He was born in Brattleboro, VT, on May 30, 1941, the son of Edmund and Helen (Rancourt) LaChance.
Joe was a graduate of Hinsdale High School and continued his education at Greenfield Community College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, earning his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
Joe dedicated his life to public service. He served with the Greenfield Police Department for thirty years, retiring as Deputy Chief. After his retirement, he continued serving the community with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff in the TRIAD unit for twenty-five years. Joe was a respected law enforcement officer and an invaluable member of the TRIAD division, dedicating himself to the people of Franklin County with humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
The family extends deep gratitude to Sheriff Lori Streeter for her exceptional care and support, and to the TRIAD team-especially Ray Zukowski-for their kindness and assistance.
Joe enjoyed golfing and treasured the twenty consecutive summers he spent at Old Orchard Beach with his daughters and grandchildren. He loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and, in his younger years, played softball himself.
Among his survivors, Joe leaves his beloved wife of sixty-five years, Gail (Reddin) LaChance; two daughters, Charlene LaChance and Kristi LaChance, both of Deerfield; two grandchildren, Ryan Roberts and Kelsey (Roberts) Gammie and her husband Tyler; and a great grandson, Casey Roberts. He is also survived by his brother, Daniel LaChance and his wife Phyllis of Denver, CO, along with several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Jean Blossom.
Joe never missed an event for his children or grandchildren. Whether it was school activities or the many sports his grandchildren played, he was always there-cheering, supporting, and proudly driving them wherever the games took them. Being present for them was one of the greatest joys of his life.
Joe also never realized the number of lives he touched throughout his decades of service. Helping others was simply who he was. His dedication to his community, his kindness, and his steady presence made a lasting impact on countless people, many of whom remember him with deep gratitude.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday 5/27/26 from 10AM-1PM. at the Kostanski Funeral Home, 220 Federal Street, Greenfield. There will be no formal funeral service. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family.
A reception will follow at the Greenfield Elks Lodge, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Joe’s life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VNA and Hospice of Cooley Dickinson 30 Locust St., Northampton, MA 01060, in appreciation for the wonderful care they provided to Joe; to the Franklin County Regional Dog Shelter 10 Sandy Lane, Turners Falls, MA 01376 or to TRIAD 160 Elm St., Greenfield, MA 01301.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Kostanski Funeral Home. For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com
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