John W. LaFond

John met the love of his life, Mary Robinson LaFond, on a blind date, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly 61 years. In a heartbreaking turn, Mary preceded him in death by just six days. (https://tinyurl.com/5xbb8cx2) He was also preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter, Ellen Louise Bugg.

He is survived by his two children, Jeannette LaFond Bugg (Robert) of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Philip LaFond (Jessica) of Oxford, Michigan; and three grandchildren, Carter Bugg, Julie Bugg, and Marie LaFond.

John had a lifelong passion for learning and sharing knowledge with others. He earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois and later completed his MBA at the University of Missouri. His career took him and his family across several states, beginning in Southern Illinois and Missouri, and eventually to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where he worked with the Energy Research and Development Administration (a spin off from the Atomic Energy Commission). More specifically, John developed a deep interest in nuclear fuel as a cleaner alternative energy source to oil and coal.

As his career progressed, John relocated his family to the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., where he worked for the Department of Energy. He spent much of his time engaging with policymakers on Capitol Hill and at the White House to establish and oversee a comprehensive energy policy for the United States, including research, development, and regulation of energy resources.

After ten years of government service, John pursued his entrepreneurial ambitions – joining a private consulting firm focused on the brokerage of enriched uranium. He engaged with entities across the globe to ensure proper use of and access to nuclear fuel.

In retirement, John and Mary settled in Chapin, South Carolina, where they enjoyed many wonderful years on Lake Murray. Known affectionately as “Papa,” John cherished time with his grandchildren—teaching them to fish, letting them captain the boat, and always delighting them with a well-timed joke or magic trick.

John was deeply committed to serving others. He embraced Rotary International’s motto, “Service Above Self,” and was a founding member and Past President of the Montgomery Village Rotary club in Maryland. Throughout his life, he remained actively involved in Rotary, visiting clubs around the world and collecting banners from his travels. He continued his dedication as a member of the Chapin Rotary Club, where he was a Past President, Paul Harris Fellow, and a constant presence at meetings and in membership efforts.

His faith was also an important part of his life. At Lake Murray Presbyterian Church, John served for many years on the Finance Committee, participated in Disciple Bible Study, and enjoyed fellowship with the senior group.

John also gave generously of his time as a volunteer business advisor with SCORE, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and helping them build successful ventures.

John and Mary will be inurned in the columbarium at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church in a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Chapin Rotary Club or to Lake Murray Presbyterian Church.